Carers’ Rights Day 2021: knowing your rights and accessing support
Today is Carers' Rights Day! This year's campaign raises awareness of the rights of the many unpaid carers across the UK. Whether you are a new or experienced care-giver, it is important that you can access the support you need at the time that you need it. We must all recognise the mental and emotional toll that care-giving can have on those around us, and the impact on their family relationships and work-life balance
The Carers' Rights Day campaign has three main objectives:
- To ensure carers are aware of their rights
- To let carers know where to get help and support
- To raise awareness of the needs of carers
There are 6.5 million unpaid carers in the UK (79,000 in Lincolnshire) and carers contribute £1.7 billion to the UK economy
The pandemic limited the independence of those living with serious health issues and vulnerabilities, increasing the responsibilities of many carers almost overnight, and leading to more people taking on caring responsibilities of loved ones and friends for the very first time.
While there are organisations and formal government support for carers available, it can be overwhelming to know what is available, especially as the needs of those needing care can change quite abruptly.
Carer benefits and entitlements
Did you know that as a carer, you may be eligible for certain benefits and entitlements, such as:
- Carer’s Allowance - if you care for someone at least 35 hours a week
- Carer’s Credit - if you care for someone for at least 20 hours a week
- Pension Credit – an income-related benefit
- Universal Credit - a monthly payment to help with your living costs
- Carers and disability benefits
If you are a carer and are looking for support please visit the links ►
