Dr Brian Iddon MP and Usdaw Welcome the New Carers Strategy

Dr Brian Iddon MP joined with Usdaw, the trace union at the forefront of campaigning for working carers, to welcome the announcement of the Carers Strategy, which includes £150 million funding for more respite care and short breaks for carers, as well as the commitment that carers will be supported so that they are not forced into financial hardship by their caring role.

At an event in Parliament earlier this week Dr Iddon spoke with working carers about their difficulties in juggling work and care and the financial hardships that they face at a meeting organised by Usdaw.

Dr Iddon said,

“I was delighted to meet with some of the millions of hard-working carers who do such a vital job and show tremendous dedication. I want give them as much help as I can, so I am working with Ministers to ensure that carers receive more financial support and to make sure that the benefits system does not prevent carers from entering paid employment or full-time education.

I have written to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, James Purnell as well as signing Early Day Motion 1545 in support of raising Carers Allowance and extending it to people who earn up to £250 a week, rather than the current earnings limit of £95 a week.”

John Hannett, General Secretary of Usdaw and a member of the Governments Standing Commission for Carers welcomed Dr Iddon’s support,

“I am delighted to have the support of Brian Iddon MP. The Carers Strategy is an excellent first step towards the goal of recognising, valuing and fully supporting carers.”

“The proposal to increase Carers Allowance and to extend it to thousands more low-paid carers would go a long way to giving carers the additional assistance that they need. We will work together to press for this proposal to be given priority in the next Comprehensive Spending Review”

1. Dr Iddon signed EDM 1545 on Carers, the full text can be viewed here http://edmi.parliament.uk/EDMi/EDMDetails.aspx?EDMID=35815&SESSION=891