Carers are already pushed to the limit – they can’t take any more cuts. That’s the message Carers UK has been taking to government in the wake of a further announcements of massive cuts to council spending and welfare benefits.

Cuts of billions from benefits will also hit disabled and older people and their families particularly hard. Whilst an extra £2bn funding for social care was welcomed, the removal of ring fencing and 26% cuts to local council budgets has led to concerns that the money will not reach hard pressed families. It is vital that local councils make social care a priority.

Carers UK has also been lobbying around the loss of the Carers Grant. This money has been crucial in stimulating the development of quality local services for carers and we are concerned that its removal will mean councils will cut carers’ services.

Read Carers UK’s response to the Comprehensive Spending Review. more…

What’s happening where you live? Carers UK needs you to report cuts and how they affect carers in your area. Our Cutswatch forum is building up a UK wide picture. more…