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Carers NI calls for overhaul of the benefits system

Wednesday, 3 August 2022 10:14

Nearly half of the 50,000 who receive a carers' allowance say they are struggling to make ends meet

I’m Matt Rosser with news that new figures from Carers Northern Ireland has revealed more people are being forced into poverty. There are thought to be nearly 300,000 unpaid carers in NI. Nearly half of the 50,000 who receive a carers' allowance say they are struggling to make ends meet. And just under three out of 10 are living in poverty - the highest rate of carer poverty in the UK. Carers NI is calling for an overhaul of the benefits system to help support families. That includes new or increased welfare benefits, dedicated energy payments, flexible working rights to allow more carers to stay in employment and much more. For more care related stories stay with us here at Care Radio

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