Launch Of Rotherham Carers Rights Day

Denis MacShane, MP for Rotherham, congratulates Rotherham Carers Forum on the launch of Carers Rights Day in Rotherham on Friday 2 December 2005. Denis MacShane will be joining Rotherham Carers for Carers Rights Day at their information stall in Rotherham town centre at 12.30 on Friday 2 December.

MacShane said,
“It is vital that carers claim the benefits to which they are entitled.  We know that between 40 and 60% of benefits go unclaimed and this could be providing vital income as well as protecting carer’s pensions in retirement.  This is a key issue to avoid poverty and hardship now and in the future, particularly for women.”
 
Research by Carers UK shows us that older caters face particular hardship through missing our on work opportunities, often having to retire early because of their caring role, and not having the opportunity to top up their pension with a part time job. It is vital that carers know their rights to benefits such as Pension Credit, to ensure that they get the support they need.

MacShane added,
“Every year over 2.3 million people become carers. Many of these carers remain unaware of the benefits and services that are available to them. It’s a real concern that carers in my constituency may not be getting all the help to which they are entitled. Carers need support – they save the country a fortune and without them the NHS and social care system would be under greater pressure. “

Carers can order a free Carers Rights Guide from Carers UK by visiting www.carersuk.org or calling the freephone number 0808 808 7777. Carers can now claim Carer’s Allowance online at www.dwp.gov.uk/carersallowance/index.asp