| answer text |
<p>The Government recognises and appreciates the vital role played by unpaid carers
now more than ever. In November 2019 there were more than 1,900 carers in the Barnsley
Central constituency that were receiving Carer’s Allowance (CA) and in 2018/19 we
spent approximately £6.7 million on CA there.</p><p><strong> </strong></p><p>We have
focussed on ensuring carers do not inadvertently stop receiving CA because of changes
to patterns of care during the current emergency. This includes allowing emotional
support to count towards the 35 hours of care being provided by the carer as well
as relaxing the rules around breaks in care. These changes aim to support carers whose
role has, in many cases, become harder due to the need to self-isolate or shield the
person they care for.</p><p> </p><p>The rate of CA was also increased in early April
as part of the annual uprating process. Since 2010, the rate of Carer’s Allowance
has increased from £53.90 to £67.25 a week, meaning nearly an additional £700 a year
for carers. We continue to support those carers in most need through additional amounts
(premiums) in means-tested benefits and have also announced increases to the standard
allowance in Universal Credit. Meaning claimants will be up to £1040 a year better
off, which some carers receiving Universal Credit will benefit from.</p>
|
|
