Gordon Prentice - Pendle's Campaigning Labour MP
| MP Welcomes £255 Million Boost for Carers |
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Tags: care system | Press Release
| Written by Gordon Prentice |
| Wednesday, 11 June 2008 00:00 |
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Pendle MP, Gordon Prentice, has welcomed the wide-ranging support for carers announced today by Health Minister Alan Johnson. Speaking from Westminster the MP commented: “There are some 6 million carers in the UK and it is no exaggeration to say they are Britain's unsung heroes as they save the country some £87 billion a year. The MP added: “Carers Week this year is highlighting the reality that ‘carers can't afford to be ill’. Over a quarter of carers say they frequently feel unable to cope with the day-to-day duties due to physical and emotional stress. And over 70 percent have been unable to take a week’s break in the last year. So the extra financial support for carers breaks and the piloting of health checks for carers announced in the National Carers Strategy will have a positive impact. “Along with other MPs, though, I am calling on the government to extend Carers Allowance to lower paid working carers earning more than the current threshold of £95 per week. After all, Carers’ Allowance is £50.55 for a minimum of 35 hours, equivalent to £1.34 an hour. The decision to care should not mean a commitment to future poverty." |
| Last Updated ( Wednesday, 08 October 2008 09:50 ) |