Jonathan Djanogly MP added his support to a national campaign on 2 December 2005 to ensure that carers are aware of their rights and entitlements. The campaign, run by Carers UK, seeks to increase the take-up of benefits and raise awareness of carer's rights and the support they might be able to get.
Jonathan Djanogly said "It is vital that carers claim the benefits to which they are entitled. We know 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 carers face particular hardship through missing out 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 they get the support they need."
There are over six million carers in the UK, who provide essential support, saving the country £57 billion each year, equivelant to the cost of the NHS. Every year over 2.3 million people become carers. Many of these people remain unaware of the benefits and services that are available to them.
Jonathan Djanogly MP added " It's a real concern that carers in my constituency may not be getting all the help they are entitled to. Carers need support - they save the country a fortune and without them, the NHS and social care system would collapse. Research has shown that many carers are living in poverty, and it is vital that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need."
Carers can order a free Carers Rights Guide from Carers UK by visiting www.carersuk.org, emailing carersrightsday@carersuk.org or calling the freephone hotline 0808 808 7777."