Research charity recognizes carers need extra financial support

Brian Myciuk, Carers First Benefits team leader, said: “At Carers First we recognize that finances are very important to a family carer. We have dedicated benefits advisers within the charity who want to help support carers to advise them about the benefits they may be entitled to.

“The Carers First website has lots of financial information about benefits and other ways a carer could save money.”

For starters, their guide on ‘Checking the benefits you can claim’ provides an overview of what carers may be entitled to, as well as guidance on specific types of benefits.

They also offer a range of advice on the financial support available to help run and equip the home, and what carers’ grants may be available.

The charity has also partnered with the Money and Pensions Service and charity Turn2us to provide direct access to their tools, including a benefits calculator and money manager for Universal Credit claimants.

Carers First are available to help you in one or more of the following areas: your care, carer wellbeing assessments, connecting you with other carers, taking breaks, getting financial support, help with everyday tasks , planning ahead, managing legal matters and managing work or education.

If you care for someone and would like to find out what support Carers First groups can offer, or if you would like to donate, please visit our website at carersfirst.org.uk or call our helpline on 0300 303 1555.

By Izzi Vaughan – Contributor