Carers aimed to claim their rights

TODAY is Carer’s Rights Day – and Warrington North MP Helen Jones is urging the 10,517 carers in her constituency to make sure they know what financial aid and practical support they are entitled to.
There are about 6.5 million unpaid carers in the UK who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £119 million a year.
Ms Jones (pictured) said: “Carers are fulfilling a vital role in our society, but too often they go without the support they need because they don’t know about the support available.
“We must all play a role in helping to identify and support people who are looking after ill, frail or disabled loved ones and making sure they get the right information and advice about the support they are entitled to as early as possible.”
Carers UK chief executive Helena Herklots said: “Caring can be tough and finding out what support is available can feel like finding your way through a maze of information. It’s essential that carers are given information and advice to guide them early so they don’t miss out on vital support.
“Without help and assistance carers can find themselves facing financial
hardship, health problems, emotional stress and relationship breakdown. This has serious consequences for individuals and families and for employers and the UK economy as a whole.
“This Carers Rights Day we particularly want to make sure that carers know about their new rights.”
Carers can order a free copy of the guide to carers’ rights and benefits – “Looking after someone” – from Carers UK by visiting www.carersuk.org or calling Carers UK’s adviceline on 0808 808 7777.