Raise Carer’s Allowance to a fair, liveable level
I provide at least 35 hours of care each week for a loved one and receive just £81.90 in Carer’s Allowance. That’s barely £3,120 a year—less than £3 an hour for what is effectively full-time work. It isn’t enough to meet basic living costs, and it fails to recognise the value of unpaid carers who keep families together and support our communities every day.

Across the UK, millions of carers sacrifice jobs, income and rest to look after those who depend on them. Their work saves the UK economy an estimated £132 billion a year—roughly the cost of running a second NHS—yet they receive one of the lowest rates of support in the welfare system.

This is a clear injustice. Carers deserve financial security and respect for the essential role they play.

We call on the Government to raise Carer’s Allowance to reflect at least 35 hours at the National Minimum Wage (minus £100 to acknowledge its benefit status). Doing so would honour carers’ contribution, reduce hardship, and allow them to continue their vital work without constant financial fear.

Sign this petition to demand fair treatment for carers—because caring should never mean living in poverty.