Changes to PIP threaten Carer's Allowance
The Government is pushing through benefits cuts that are likely to severely affect the lives of many unpaid carers.
They say the benefits system faces collapse without cuts to disability payments.
Liz Kendall, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, published her Welfare Reform Bill on Wednesday 18th June, confirming it would lead to benefit cuts for nearly a million people by 2030.
They key change for carers is that many receive Carer’s Allowance because the person they care for is entitled to PIP (Personal Independence Payments.)
The bill will cut PIP for more than 800,000 people with disabilities, thereby removing Carers’ Allowance for 150,000 people who care for them.
Devastating for carers
Like all carer organisations we are dismayed by these proposals which will increase poverty and hardship for so many carer households.
Carers Trust have issued this statement calling for change, and Carers UD have outlined their views here.
What can you do
Carers UK are running a campaign to try and protect carers’ benefits.
There is an open letter to the Prime Minister, and they encourage everyone to sign.
And guidance on how to write to your MP to encourage them to protect carers’ benefits.
Questions and concerns
If you are worried about your situation, and would like advice and/or support, please get in touch with our Helpline team on 0303 040 1234.
About Carers Allowance
How Carer’s Allowance currently works:
- Carer’s Allowance is a benefit for those who spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone who receives certain disability benefits.
- If the person you care for receives the daily living component of Personal Independence Payment (PIP), you may be eligible for Carer’s Allowance, provided you meet the other eligibility criteria.
- Carer’s Allowance is not means-tested, meaning your income and savings don’t affect your eligibility, but there is an earnings limit of £196 per week after deductions.
Around half of Carer’s Allowance awards are tied to PIP.