Carers Poverty Alliance

Government has promised a review of carers' benefits and pledged that by 2018, carers won't be forced into financial hardship by caring. Carers cannot wait - they are falling into poverty and financial hardship now, and need urgent action. Carers' benefits must be reformed to protect carers from poverty and support carers combine caring with work and study.

Carers UK are calling on the public, along with charities, voluntary organisations and employers to add their voice to this Charter and send a message to government - reform carers' benefits and end carer poverty now. Carers UK plans to present the Charter to the government and all political parties later this summer.

The government has invested in carers' breaks and other support for carers. It has made a promise that by 2018 carers will have a life of their own and not be forced into financial hardship.

In 2010 social care is in crisis and in need of urgent reform. The main carers' benefit is worth just £1.52 an hour, well short of the minimum wage of £5.73. (and even less than that if you're retired, disabled or on a low income)

Carers are paying a heavy price - no money, no breaks, no life of their own and a constant battle for support. Some are pushed to the point of collapse.

For detailed information and to sign the letter, please visit the Carers UK Official Webpage.