As a single parent of two adult daughters, I face daily challenges and responsibilities. One of my daughters has learning disabilities, Autism, Anxiety, and Depression. Due to her needs, my capacity to work is severely limited. This is not just a story of a struggle, but one of many like mine across the UK.

When my daughter was under my Universal Credit (UC) claim, I received £1305 monthly. But since she moved to her own UC claim, my UC income dropped drastically to £70. While she currently receives £316, it will only increase to £740 in three months. This sharp decline in my benefits has strained our family finances, as I navigate paying a mortgage of £1140, far exceeding my monthly UC provision.

I do work, term time in order to strike the balance between my daughter’s needs, getting some very much needed respite and paying the bills.

This is not a unique story. Many carers experience similar hardships, and it is vital that the government recognises the essential care work we do. Providing a work allowance to carers on Universal Credit would be a step in showing appreciation and providing much-needed financial support for those who dedicate their lives to caring for their loved ones.

Carers save the government an estimated £132 billion a year by providing vital care, often at their own financial expense. The introduction of a work allowance for carers would help address this financial imbalance and alleviate the pressure that many of us are facing every day.

Universal Credit must evolve to reflect the true needs of carers. It is imperative that the Department for Work and Pensions takes immediate action to implement this critical change. By doing so, they would acknowledge the invaluable work carers do throuhgout the UK, ensuring that we are supported rather than penalised financially for our essential roles in society.

Help us enact this vital change. Sign this petition and support the call for fair recognition of carers in the Universal Credit system. Your signature can make a significant impact.