Sandwich carers: complete review into financial support for carers needed

EMBARGO: 00.01 Tuesday 7th January

Responding to University College London’s report that says sandwich carers suffer from a deterioration in both their mental and physical health over time, Liberal Democrat Care and Carers spokesperson Alison Bennett MP said:

“Caring is one of the most rewarding things someone can do but we must also recognise the immense challenges that come alongside it. For those looking after older relatives and children at the same time these pressures can be especially difficult.

“The previous Conservative government completely neglected carers. They shamefully hounded thousands during the Carer’s Allowance scandal and left millions without the support they needed.

“The new government cannot follow this path and it is welcome they have listened to the Liberal Democrats and ordered a review into the Carer’s Allowance scandal but there is much more that needs to be done.

“We need to see Ministers introduce paid carer’s leave to help people manage both work and their caring responsibilities and to get on with a complete review of financial support for carers. Until then they will not get the fair deal they deserve and the situation will only get worse.”

ENDS