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Network Journal 2008 Issue 3 May/June |
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Spotlight Day: June 11 2008
Being a carer is like playing snakes and ladders – full of ups and downs – that was the message for Usdaw’s special spotlight day which attracted support from more than 60 MPs.
The Westminster event, which was timed to coincide with National Carers' Week, was repeated throughout the country as reps and officials used giant games of snakes and ladders to promote the day.
"Working carers face a number of dilemmas," said general secretary John Hannett. "They want to do as much as they can to look after their loved ones but they also have to work to make ends meet. At the moment if you earn more than £95 a week you lose all of your entitlement to carer's allowance. We want to see this changed."
"Many of our members are currently, or likely to be in the future, carers of one sort or another. They do a fantastic job and deserve more recognition. That's why we are on the campaign trail."
Usdaw is campaigning for an increase in the rate of benefits available and a change to the 'earnings rule' which would mean low paid workers keep their entitlement, while those earning more will see a gradual reduction in their benefit.
There was some good news from the Government when it announced it was to spend £150m to help carers take planned breaks. It also involves a comprehensive review of the financial support available to carers and to recognise and reward carers appropriately. This will form part of its National Carers' Strategy.
"The work carried out by carers saves the economy around £87 billion a year. We want to see the Government reflect this in their future manifesto," added John, who is a member of the Government's Standing Commission on Carers. "I'm looking forward to the challenge of ensuring the commitments outlined in the latest policy document are implemented. It's important that we win substantial improved rights and benefits for carers and that's what our Supporting Parents and Carers campaign is all about."
www.usdaw.org.uk/campaigns/supportingparentsandcarers
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