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Beith urges carers to find out about support

December 5, 2008 10:00 AM

Berwick MP Sir Alan Beith added their support to Carers UK's national carers' rights campaign on Friday 5th December 2008.

There are over six million unpaid carers in the UK who provide care support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £87 billion each year. The Carers Rights Day campaign, run by Carers UK, seeks to increase the take-up of benefits and raise awareness of carers' rights and the support that they may be able to get. It might be the Carer's Allowance, meals on wheels, council tax discount or practical support caring that makes a difference.

Alan Beith MP said

"It's a real concern that carers throughout the Berwick upon Tweed constituency may not be getting all the help they are entitled to. Carers are fulfilling a vital role in society and without them the NHS and social care system would not be able to cope.

"It is essential that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need and do not live in poverty, risking their own health and future prospects."

Carers UK urged carers to get in touch with its helpline, CarersLine (0808 808 7777 or www.carersuk.org).

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive said, "Nearly three quarters of carers are financially worse-off as a result of caring, with many falling into poverty and debt. Yet around £740 million per year in carers benefits go unclaimed. Carers must get clear information on what they are entitled to, and how to claim it."

Carers can order a free booklet called Looking after someone: a guide to carers' rights and benefits from Carers UK by visiting www.carersuk.org or calling the free phone hotline on 0808 808 7777.

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