Are you a carer? You might be without realising it

It’s Carers Week, and this year’s theme is Caring About Equality. Carers can often face real hardships; missing out on income because they can’t work, feeling isolated, and unable to make the most of education and career opportunities because of their caring responsibilities.

Many people look after a loved one without thinking of themselves as a ‘carer.’ But if you regularly support an ill or disabled partner, family member or friend, you could be classed as their carer and might be entitled to Carer’s Allowance.

We always want to make sure you know what help is available to you. If you’re spending time looking after someone, even informally, read on to find out how you could get support with this.

What is Carer’s Allowance?

Carer’s Allowance is the main state benefit for people who care for someone. It’s currently £83.30 per week and is designed to help cover the costs of a caring role.

Am I eligible for Carer’s Allowance?

You could be eligible if you:

• Spend at least 35 hours a week caring for someone
• Are aged 16 or over
• Earn £196 a week or less (after tax, National Insurance, and expenses)
• Are not in full-time education
• Live in England, Scotland or Wales, or meet other residency criteria

What about the person I care for?

The person you care for must be claiming one of the following benefits:

• Personal Independence Payment (daily living component)
• Disability Living Allowance (middle or highest care rate)
• Attendance Allowance
• Adult or Child Disability Payment (standard/enhanced or middle/high care rates)
• Pension Age Disability Payment
• Armed Forces Independence Payment
• Constant Attendance Allowance (with certain conditions)

What if I share my caring role?

If someone you share care duties with is already claiming Carer’s Allowance or a related benefit for the same person, only one of you can get it. You can still apply, but the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) will decide who qualifies. You should discuss this with the other carer before applying, so you can agree on the best option.

What counts as caring?

Caring can take many forms, such as:

• Helping with meals, washing, or personal care
• Taking the person to medical appointments
• Managing shopping, bills, or paperwork

If your care adds up to 35 hours a week, it counts.

What is ‘underlying entitlement’?

Even if you don’t receive Carer’s Allowance because you're already getting another benefit (like a State Pension), you might still have what’s called an ‘underlying entitlement.’

This can increase your entitlement to other benefits – for example, you may get a Carer Premium added to means-tested benefits such as Universal Credit or Pension Credit.

I think I might qualify. What should I do?

Many people don’t realise they’re eligible for Carer’s Allowance or that being a carer could open the door to additional help. If you think you might qualify, it’s worth finding out more. Visit www.gov.uk/carers-allowance, speak to a welfare advisor, or get help from a local support group or Citizens Advice.

How we helped Mr & Mrs W