Financial help and support for carers

BBC Radio 4's Money Box Live Wednesday 17 November at 1502 GMT On BBC Radio 4 and Online Listen to the programme Programme transcript (21 pages)

As part of BBC Radio 4's Care in the UK seriesPaul Lewis and guests answered your questions about accessing help or financial support if you are a carer.

Around six million people in the UK are carers and a further six thousand people take on a caring role every day, say charity Carers UK.

While it is estimated that carers save the economy £87bn per year, 72% of carers are financially worse off as a result of their efforts.

A survey by charity Contact a Family found that families with disabled children are going without heating and food to make ends meet.

Whatever your question, Paul Lewis and guests were ready to offer help and advice.

Are you entitled to help and where can you seek advice?

What is a carer's assessment and how do you prepare for one?

Can you obtain practical assistance such as equipment, home modification or access to a break?

Maybe you have a question about benefits or direct payments?

And can you claim tax credits if you care for a child with a disability?

Paul Lewis was joined by

• Jean French, advice and information manager, Carers UK

• Derek Sinclair, senior parent adviser, Contact a Family

• Philip Spiers, director, FirstStop

Presenter: Paul Lewis
Producer: Diane Richardson

E-mail this to a friend

Printable version