(10 months, 3 weeks ago)
Lords ChamberMy noble friend is right that we should continue to recognise the important role that unpaid carers play around the country. Our guidance asks that local authorities consider the needs of various households, including unpaid carers. The Government have increased carer’s allowance by around £1,200 per year since 2010-11.
Will this evaluation include full consultation and discussions with the charity and voluntary sector, which, after all, understands very well the impact that reducing or removing this fund would have? That sector will be at the front line of picking up the problems should it be removed.
I will need to check, but I feel certain that that will be the case. I will write to the noble Baroness if I am wrong. It is a very good point.