Unpaid Carers

Lord Mohammed of Tinsley Excerpts
Wednesday 8th July 2026

(3 weeks, 2 days ago)

Lords Chamber
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Lord Leong Portrait Lord Leong (Lab)
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Absolutely. We recognise that carer’s allowance has not kept pace with the way that many carers now combine work and caring. The current earnings cliff edge can create uncertainty and unfair outcomes. That is why the Government have launched a call for evidence to modernise the benefit, including on whether payments should gradually taper as earnings rise. We have also increased the weekly earnings limit to £204. We want a system that supports carers to work, rather than one that penalises them for doing so.

Lord Mohammed of Tinsley Portrait Lord Mohammed of Tinsley (LD)
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My Lords, given that the issue of NEETs has been looked at by His Majesty’s Government, and that they will report back on Milburn’s recommendations, will the Government please look at the possibility of providing a free bus pass for young carers, particularly given that they have sometimes had to sacrifice their education to look after their loved ones? This support from the Government might be a step up for them in seeking work, training or education.

Lord Leong Portrait Lord Leong (Lab)
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The noble Lord makes a very interesting suggestion. I will take it back to the officials in my department and other departments too.