DWP accused of ‘unfair’ Universal Credit policy change for carers
New regulations mean carers will no longer be able to claim Carer's Allowance when receiving Pension Credit
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) has been accused of treating carers "unfairly" after it emerged that new regulations will mean they will no longer be able to claim Carer's Allowance when receiving Pension Credit.
The move has been criticized by charities, who say it will hit vulnerable people and could force some carers to give up their caring roles.
Under the new rules, which come into effect in November, carers who receive Pension Credit will no longer be eligible for Carer's Allowance.
This is because Pension Credit is considered to be a higher rate of benefit than Carer's Allowance.
The DWP says the change is necessary to ensure that carers are receiving the maximum possible benefit.
However, charities have argued that the move is unfair and will hit vulnerable people.
Carers UK said the change will affect around 80,000 people and could force some carers to give up their caring roles.
The charity's chief executive, Helen Walker, said: "This is a cruel and unfair decision that will hit vulnerable people and could force some carers to give up their caring roles."
The DWP has said that it will provide support to carers who are affected by the change.
A spokesperson said: "We understand that this change may affect some carers, and we are committed to providing support to those who need it."
The spokesperson added that the DWP will be providing a range of support measures, including financial advice and help with finding work.
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