No change to benefits for carers on pensions

Jersey's Social Security Minister will not change the benefits systems so carers who get their pensions can claim the home carers' allowance too.

Deputy Lyndsay Feltham said the move would be too expensive and cost £1.5m per 100 carers a year - and £7.5m for 500 carers.

She has committed to rearranging how care needs are assessed, to make it easier for carers to receive money directly and making care packages more flexible to "take better account" of individual needs.

The move came after a two-month review of the support for unpaid carers and Deputy Feltham promised clearer information for people looking after their loved ones.

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.

Feltham said carers gave a "loud and clear" message that they found it difficult to understand what help was on offer and how to access it.

There are currently 1,800 islanders who get support form the Long-Term Care scheme, for people in care homes or in their own home.

The review found there was a limited update of respite care funding so carers can get a break, highlighting a lack of facilities on Jersey.

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

The government said a more in-depth review of the longer term need of respite services was needed.

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