Sandwell carers failing to claim allowances they are entitled to

Unclaimed Carer’s Allowance in Sandwell, the main benefit for those caring for older, seriously ill or disabled loved ones, has risen to over £8million as over 2,600 full-time carers miss out.

With rapidly rising costs of living hitting caring families hard, CARES, the Sandwell based charity says a lack of financial support is putting carers at risk of long-term debt and financial hardship.

Geoff Foster, chief executive officer of CARES said, “If you suddenly need to provide full-time care for an older, ill or disabled loved one your life can be turned upside-down.

"When their welfare is your top priority, looking after your own finances can easily fall by the wayside. If carers have been forced to give up work to care, just as the family face all the extra household and transport costs of caring – this can rapidly push carers into long-term debt and financial hardship."

Mr Foster added: "This financial pressure is often made worse by long delays in them accessing essential support like Carer’s Allowance. It is vital that anyone caring for a loved one seeks advice to check they are getting all the financial help and practical support they are entitled to.”