Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, for what reason carers allowance for unpaid carers is treated as an income for benefits purposes.

This Government recognises and values the vital contribution made by carers in supporting some of the most vulnerable in society, including pensioners and those with disabilities.

The principle that available income normally reduces entitlement to means-tested benefits is long established under successive Governments. Means-tested benefits essentially “top-up” other income. Means-tested benefits contain additional amounts for unpaid carers, worth around £2,000 a year, which recognise the additional contribution and responsibilities associated with caring and mean that those with caring responsibilities on low incomes can receive more than other claimants.