Norman Baker MP Member of Parliament for Lewes constituency
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Contact Norman at:
Norman Baker,
23 East Street,
Lewes,
East Sussex,
BN7 2LJ.
Tel: (01273) 480281.
Fax: (01273) 480287.
Email: info
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Local MP supports Carers' Rights Day
Local Lib Dem MP Norman Baker has today, on National Carers’ Rights Day, highlighted newly released figures which show that there are over 24,000 carers in the Lewes and Wealden Districts, many of whom are missing out on vital benefits, practical support and information.
These figures are part of a wider research report published by leading charity Carers UK which also reveals that the high annual turnover of carers – nearly 9000 people in the local area face new caring responsibilities every year - may be a key reason why people are not claiming the practical and financial support that is available to them.
Key findings of the report reveal that 65 per cent did not recognise themselves as carers in the first year of caring. Furthermore, a third of respondents took over five years to recognise themselves as carers and consequently missed out on benefits and pension entitlements. 58% of those believing that they had missed out on such entitlements had done so for over three years before realising.
Commenting on the figures, Norman said:
"One in ten adults is a carer and many give up an income, future employment prospects and pension rights to look after a loved one. What is more, if carers do not receive the help that they need and deserve, the burden can be considerable. Carers are responsible for saving the economy an estimated £57bn every year but all too often pay a heavy price in terms of their own health and wellbeing because they are unaware of the financial and practical support available to them. This is why I am supporting Carers’ Rights Day and urging everyone in my constituency who looks after a friend, relative or partner to contact their local carers’ group or Social Services to find out about the help they are entitled to."