The Government said it was reviewing how to stop carers from being paid too much by the system
The Government is considering the rollout of a text message service to stop carers breaking overpayment rules on Carers Allowance, which has seen some having to pay back thousands of pounds. Work and pensions minister Sir Stephen Timms said the department was reviewing ways to stop carers getting too much from the system, which can happen when people's earnings exceed the benefit threshold.
Labour MP Alison Hume said: "Carers make incredible sacrifices to care for loved ones, but they can be left deep in debt, repaying carers allowance after unintentionally breaching the qualifying rules. Does my honourable friend agree that as a society we have a duty of care to carers?" Who is eligible for Carers Allowance According to gov.uk, carers can get £81.90 a week if they look after someone for at least 35 hours a week and they get certain benefits. The carer does not have to be related to, or live with, the person they care for.
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