Local MP Katy Clark has added her name to the Carers UK’s Carers Poverty Charter calling on the Government to improve carer’s benefits and income.
The Charter has received widespread support from a number of social care charities including Quarriers and Carers Scotland.
Katy said, “The work of carer’s throughout Britain is priceless. Most carers make financial sacrifies to deliver the help they give and I believe that it is time that they received the financial recognition that their work deserves.”
Carers in Britain are believed to save the country £87 billion a year. However, the main carer’s benefit is only £53.10 a week for a minimum of 35 hours caring.
Katy continued, “ Labour has done a huge amount for carers but much more needs to be done. The Carers Poverty Charter is calling on the Government to protect carers from falling into poverty or financial hardship, help carers combine caring with work and study and make claiming benefits straightforward for carers. I have signed my name to the Charter and would encourage people in North Ayrshire and Arran to also do so and fight to give carer’s the correct level of recognition and financial support.
More information and a link to sign the Charter can be found at http://www.carersuk.org/Newsandcampaigns.