I have just completed a visit to the Bath Carers' Centre - this is an area I am passionate about. My mother was a carer for my grandmother, so I personally am fully aware of the importance of the role. I am more than happy to ask the question at the House as to whether there are plans to introduce changes to the legislation with regards to carers.
I know that older carers make a vital contribution to society. Rest assured, carers are central to the Government's proposals for the future of care. I firmly believe that the Care Act represents the most significant reform for carers for 60 years, putting people and their carers in control of their care and support.
A major change in the Act is that it gives carers new rights which put them on the same footing as the people they care for. Simply put, all carers will be entitled to an assessment. If a carer is eligible for support for particular needs, they will have a legal right to receive support for those needs, just like the people they care for. The Care Act also sets out that local authorities need to provide comprehensive information and advice about care and support services in their local area. This will help older people to understand the options available, and how they can access care and support services.
From April 2016, there will also be a cap on care costs of £72,000. People will get support if their assets are worth less than £118,000 and the option of deferred payment will mean no one should have to sell their home in their lifetime.
This is particularly important for unpaid carers, which many older carers are, who contribute £119bn of care to their loved ones. As well as increasing the Carers' Allowance to £62.10 and the earnings limit to receive benefits to £110, the Care Act has allowed the Government to begin work on identifying carers, personalising support for carers, ensuring carers fulfil their potential, and ensuring carers stay fit and healthy.