Carers UK respond to the Government announcement on the new State Pension Age

Responding to the Government's decision today to raise the State Pension age to 68 by 2037 to 2039 as recommended by John Cridland CBE, Heléna Herklots CBE, Chief Executive of Carers UK said:

"The prospect of working longer could be extremely tough for those who are increasingly likely to be juggling work and care. This makes rights to paid care leave - and a review of workplace rights as recommended by John Cridland - essential. Implementing stronger workplace rights for carers is something that would make a difference for workers juggling work and caring unpaid for a relative or friend right now - helping people extend working lives, improve health and well-being and continue to provide support. Our evidence also suggests that this brings benefits to businesses as well."

"Along with supporting carers to work longer must come the consideration of those who now face longer on carers benefits until their reach State Pension age and have to live for longer on a reduced income. Our key call for action is to increase the level of Carer's Allowance to the level of Job Seekers Allowance and associated increases in Carer Premia, but also to consider John Cridland's call for enhanced benefits for long term carers nearing State Pension age."