Question to the Department for Work and Pensions:

To ask Her Majesty’s Government what further steps they propose to encourage up-take of Carer’s Credit by those who are caring for others for 20 hours or more per week and who do not qualify for Carer’s Allowance.

Ahead of the introduction of the new State Pension in April 2016, we are specifically encouraging people to find out how they could increase their new State Pension, including through National Insurance credits. This includes encouraging people who are eligible but may not be claiming carer’s credits at the moment. We are working with the media, local authorities, the NHS, voluntary organisations and charities, including carers’ organisations to promote material, including fact sheets and videos, ensuring the right information and advice is available on carer’s credits.

The Department does not hold information that would allow us to identify individuals who might be eligible for the carer’s credit. We use a range of methods to signpost the carer’s credit to individuals who contact us about other benefits who might be potentially eligible, including when someone has claimed but is not entitled to Carer’s Allowance. Departmental officials promote the carer’s credit at carers’ events, including Carer’s Week, and amongst support organisations. Information on the credits is available on the government’s website GOV.UK and also on carers’ organisations websites.