News Release

12th December 2001

CARERS OUGHT TO TAKE UP NEW RIGHTS

Michael Fabricant MP today called on the estimated 8,000 people in the Lichfield Parliamentary constituency who care for someone who is ill, disabled or frail to check whether reforms introduced this year may help them.

The changes mean that local councils have the power to provide services - or payments instead of services - based on the needs of carers. The services can be provided direct to the carer or to the person they care for. There have also been improvements in two carer benefits - the Carer Premium has gone up by £10 per week and the earnings limit on Invalid Care Allowance has been raised from £50 to £72 per week.

Last Monday was Carers' Rights Day. Speaking today (when Prime Minister's Question Time is held) Michael says: "Carers save the country a fortune every year and are entitled to support. Sadly, there is evidence that many carers are not aware of their rights and do not claim the benefits or services that are available. Carers' Rights Day was a welcome initiative, which will help increase carers' awareness of the help they can get. If carers in the Lichfield constituency need more information, they are welcome to write to me at the House of Commons or they can call the Carers UK hotline - 020 7566 7610 - for a free information pack."

Carers' Rights Day is a national event organised by the charity Carers UK. These changes have come about as result of the Carers and Disabled Children's Act 2000, which came into effect this year. "Unfortunately, not every carer is entitled to Invalid Care Allowance, but carers should check whether they fall under the appropriate categories" Michael adds.

The ICA is payable to carers who