Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, if he will make it his policy to maintain the level of (a) services used and (b) benefits claimed by carers.

This Government recognises and appreciates the vital contribution made by informal carers who provide invaluable support for relatives, partners, friends and neighbours who may be ill, frail or disabled.

We have ensured that carers are central to the Government’s reforms to care and support, and there are stronger rights for carers in the Care Act, which came into force in April 2015.

The Government is committed to continuing to provide financial support for carers through the benefit system.