The letter, coordinated by the Carer Poverty Coalition and led by Carers UK, was sent on 10 April 2026 and calls for a comprehensive review of Carer’s Allowance following the 50th anniversary of its introduction on 12 April 1976.
The anniversary has prompted renewed scrutiny of how well the benefit system reflects the realities of caring today. While Carer’s Allowance was designed for a very different economic and employment landscape, millions of unpaid carers now balance caring responsibilities with paid work. However, the current system - including the earnings threshold and restrictions around education and training - can create financial instability and barriers to opportunity.
The open letter calls on the Government to:
- Commission a full review of Carer’s Allowance
- Increase the level of financial support for carers
- Remove barriers to employment and education
- Address gaps in support for carers over State Pension age
- Consider additional financial recognition for carers supporting more than one person
Kingston Carers Network’s CEO, Rachael Stokes, is among the signatories to the letter, underlining our commitment to amplifying the voices of unpaid carers both locally and nationally.
We continue to highlight the financial pressures faced by unpaid carers in Kingston and the need for a system that better recognises and supports them.
If you are an unpaid carer in Kingston and would like support, we offer free information, advice and support to help with caring responsibilities and wellbeing.
Register with us or contact our friendly team for more information.
Read the full letter to the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions here.