Thousands missing out on compensation for caring

People providing substantial care for their spouse or partner are less likely to consider themselves as 'carers', putting them at risk of missing out on the extra cash benefits they're entitled to, according to Age Concern.

The warning comes as new research reveals that a quarter of over 50s are unaware they could be eligible for benefits if they provide care for a partner or spouse. The charity is urging all older carers and those caring for an older person to contact it for a free benefits check, as part of its ongoing Your Rights campaign.

For many carers, the cost of caring can quickly escalate and become a huge financial headache at an already very stressful time. Yet thousands of carers nationwide are missing out on their share of the annual £740 million in unclaimed carers' benefits because they don't realise they're entitled to the extra cash or feel the system is too confusing.

Many pensioners wrongly believe that they aren't entitled to carers' benefits because they're already in receipt of the state pension, yet this is often not the case. And many carers under state pension age are unaware that putting in a claim could give their finances a double boost, by giving them a weekly credit towards their state pension as well as topping up their regular income.

The charity is urging older carers across the country to get in touch with their local Age Concern for free, clear and confidential benefits advice. Age Concerns across the country are running Your Rights events to coincide with Carers' Week to encourage older carers and those caring for older people to find out what they're entitled to.

Gordon Lishman, Director General of Age Concern, said: "The cost of caring can be a big weight to bear for many people, but claiming carers' benefits can help to lighten the load.

"Yet thousands of carers across the UK each year are missing out on cash benefits of up to £2,500 a year, often because they don't realise they're entitled to the extra help or just don't understand the system."

Moneyextra.com recommends you take independent financial advice before acting on any article

2007-06-11 10:23:31 © Moneyextra.com