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B P Collins Solicitors: talk to the experts

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Elderly carers are missing out on their rights

01 December 2006

PRESS RELEASE

Legal expert speaks out in support of Carers Rights Day on 8 December 2006

Find out what you're entitled to and don't be put off by the system. So says a Thames Valley legal expert in advising older people and their carers in the run up to Carers Rights Day on 8 December.

According to Sue Normanton, a specialist in Elder Law with solicitors B P Collins, hundreds of thousands of pounds worth of benefits remain unclaimed by older people each year and Pension Credit is claimed by only around half of those entitled to it.

Carers Rights Day, an initiative run by the charity Carers UK, is focusing particularly this year on older people, one in eight of whom over 60 are themselves carers; a third of these provide care for another person for over 50 hours a week and a fifth report that their own health is failing.

Despite this and according to Help the Aged, many older people simply don't know what they are entitled to and even if they do, the system is often too complex for them to attempt to negotiate. The intrusive questioning required by means testing is a further deterrent.

Says Sue: "Many older people now live below the poverty line and life is even harder for those who are carers. So the very least that should happen is that they receive clear information and that the claims system is accessible. Earlier this year, Sir Derek Wanless' report on Social Care and Older People, called for means testing to be abolished - I would like to see this recommendation acted upon.

"I urge older people, especially those who are carers, to seek help. Charities like Carers UK and organisations like Citizens Advice are on hand to provide free advice and practical help with form filling. Don't lose out on the help that you need and which is rightfully yours."

She adds: "Even if you don't qualify for financial assistance, as an elderly carer you can get practical help with things like respite care, specialist equipment and adaptations to your home."

For more information on Carers Rights Day, contact Carers UK at www.carersuk.org.

ENDS

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