£6 Million Unclaimed Each Year... Who Cares?

Date published: 01/06/2004

Advice agencies across Rochdale borough are joining together to help carers claim benefits that could boost their quality of life. A recent report stated that around 300,000 carers nationally are missing out on up to £6 million in social security benefits each year.

The report, by Carers UK, says many carers don't claim their entitlements because they don't see themselves as carers, as the person they care for may be a close relative or friend. Other people are put off claiming as a carer because they think it will affect benefits that either they or the person they care for already receive.

In fact, carers can usually claim extra benefits even if the person they care for is a family member who lives in the same house as them. Claiming as a carer, far from reducing entitlement to existing benefits can often result in increased levels of benefits like Pension Credit, Income Support, Housing Benefit or Council Tax Benefit.

Rochdale Council Advice Worker Carole Denneny said, "There must be many carers in Rochdale borough who are missing out on benefits. We are urging anyone who does not work full time and who cares for someone who gets either attendance allowance, or the care component of disability living allowance at the middle or higher rate to contact an adviser to check what they're entitled to."

"We would be especially pleased to hear from any carers over the age of 65, as there is evidence carers in this client group are missing out more than others."

As a carer, you can get free, independent and confidential advice on claiming carer's benefits by telephoning:

• Rochdale Council Advice Service (01706) 865371
• Citizen's Advice Bureau 0870 120 2497
• Age Concern (01706) 712515
• Carers Resource Centre (01706) 865808