Alzheimer’s Society calls for an end to complex care charging system
Published 8 September 2009
A fifth of carers face difficulties in applying for benefits under the current 'complex and confusing' system according to The Public Accounts Committee.
The group of MPs has today (Tuesday, 8 September) published a report examining the steps the Department for Work and Pensions has taken to improve the delivery of benefits to carers and the support it provides to help them find employment.
Neil Hunt
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
'People with dementia and their carers are among those who are the hardest hit by the financial costs of disability. The support carers provide saves the government over £6 billion a year alone. Carers are doing a hard enough job as it is without having to jump through hoops to apply for necessary benefits and allowances.
'This report by the PAC adds further weight to the call for the government's forthcoming green paper to radically overhaul the current charging system and deliver a transparent and fair deal for carers.'
Chief Executive
Alzheimer's Society
Ends
Notes to editors
- One in three people over 65 will die with dementia
- Alzheimer's Society research shows that 700,000 people in the UK have a form of dementia, more than half have Alzheimer's disease. In less than 20 years nearly a million people will be living with dementia. This will soar to 1.7 million people by 2051
- Alzheimer's Society champions the rights of people living with dementia and the millions of people who care for them.
- Alzheimer's Society works in England, Wales and Northern Ireland
- Alzheimer's Society needs to raise money to help people live well with
dementia today and for research to find a cure for tomorrow. You can
donate now by calling 0845 306 0898 or visiting alzheimers.org.uk
- Alzheimer's Society provides a National Dementia Helpline, the number is 0845 300 0336 or visit alzheimers.org.uk
