Carer disappointed benefit change ruled out

A carer said he was disappointed the Government of Jersey had ruled out changing the benefits systems to enable pensioners with caring responsibilities to also claim the home carers' allowance.

The social security minister said the change would need "a significant increase in funding" estimated to cost £1.5m, but committed to rearranging the way in which care needs are assessed to make it easier for carers to get money directly.

Deputy Lyndsay Feltham launched a review into support for carers after a Jersey Evening Post (JEP) campaign.

Mark Jones, who cares for his two adult children, said the review was "not the outcome I wanted" but was very pleased there would be more support in general.

He highlighted his struggles via the JEP in October, which led to the minister reviewing support for carers.

Jones said some of the change meant "the campaign has been worth it in that respect" but questioned aspects of the report about "overlap of benefits law" which the review concluded there would be no changes to.

There will also be a dedicated advisor for carers and a new information page on the government's website and an information booklet to give people details about the support on offer.

A special Carer Connect Me event will be held on Tuesday 17 March to bring islanders together and share information and resources.

Responding to Jones' comments – Feltham said "I can't discuss a specific case" and "it would also be inappropriate for me to look at solutions on the basis of a single case".

She said: "My team and I have offered to meet directly with Mr Jones, my understanding is he has accepted that offer.

"It also wouldn't have been targeted, but more importantly it wasn't the type of help that carers more generally were asking from us.

"This of course is only a beginning - I've made some comments as well in the report about things that the next minister and the next government might want to look at like respite for carers."

A general election is being held in June after which a new government will be elected.

Follow BBC Jersey on X and Facebook. Send your story ideas to [email protected].