let’ s talk benefits east sussex carers’ forum
East Sussex Carers’ Forum Summary Report, 5 th February 2013
Over 120 people attended the East Sussex Carers Forum on 5th February in St Leonards; in view of changes to the welfare system from April 2013 the theme of the Forum was‘ Let’ s Talk Benefits’. As well as speakers from national and local Government there were a variety of information stands from local organisations.
Jaki Hall, Benefits Liaison Officer at Wealden District Council, provided a brief explanation of the changes to Housing Benefit and Council Tax Benefit from 1 April 2013. Final details are still being agreed but you can contact your local authority and speak to a benefits adviser who will be able to discuss your entitlements. Jaki explained that Council Tax Benefit will no longer be a national scheme, and in East Sussex will become Council Tax Reduction Scheme. The maximum support payable will not be capped but the minimum rate will be £ 5 per week – if the benefit is calculated at less than £ 5 then nothing will be payable.
Barry Atkins, Head of Strategic Commissioning, Older People and Carers at East Sussex County Council gave an update on the planned funding cuts in Adult Social Care, he reassured carers that the carer-specific budget and carers services will not be affected but acknowledged that carers will be affected by service cuts for those they care for.
Oliver Mawdsley, Outreach Manager at the Carers Allowance Unit, Department for Work and Pensions in Preston spoke in detail about Carers Allowance. Oliver stressed that carers should always apply for carers allowance as it is a‘ gateway benefit’ which may allow access to other benefits even if carers allowance itself isn’ t payable. This is especially relevant for carers who receive a pension. More details can be found at www. gov. uk / browse / benefits / disability
The forum ended with a short question and answer session, when carers expressed concern about a lack of information available on forthcoming changes and also the lack of easily understandable information about benefits in general. Many carers were worried that cuts to care packages would reduce their respite from caring. To them, a break meant“ freedom, a decent night’ s sleep, ability to carry on, recharge batteries, sharing responsibility.”
The full forum report will be available shortly on Care for the Carers website( www. cftc. org. uk) and will be sent to all who attended the forum. The report will include a list of contact points for queries arising from changes to benefits.
Thank you to everyone who attended the forum – carers, staff and partner organisations.
If you would like to receive a copy of the report or would like information on future forums please call Debbie on 01323 738390 or email her at debbieh @ cftc. org. uk
www. cftc. org. uk 15