My Carer Allowance Frustrations

Hey all,

I find it insane how bad HMRC run the carers allowance sector in the UK. I haven't received any carers allowance since March because my account has been suspended, as they haven't read my yearly Carers form (sent in June). They also failed to communicate with me that my carers allowance had been suspended until I had to call them after only having enough money to make biscuits my dinner.

It's crazy to me how badly it's all run. I am struggling for money, have had to borrow from my Mum and because of how low my account looks, I'm barely and/or feel comfortable going out. I feel isolated and incredibly frustrated by it all. Not to mention that if you earn more than £139 a week (which is absolutely nothing) you no longer can have carers allowance. Imagine working as a carer for 35 hours a week, which every carer definitely does, to then also feel like they can't work a second job without risking losing being paid to take care of someone. We all don't do it for the money but god, it's horrifying to know the government are constantly insisting everyone looks for work despite your situation, yet punishes you if you do what they demand.

I'd like to see these decision makers try and take care of somebody for that amount, I would love to see it!

I feel it's a must to add, the people I've spoken to who are manning the phones at the carers allowance unit have been lovely people. It must be such a difficult job to have to look after the phones knowing the people above you are making decisions which are forcing the people you speak to's life worse. Props to them for also being a strong and wonderful bunch of people.

What do I suggest?

• Pay carers a better amount.

• Bring the weekly limit up.

• Offer better support/Help carers get back into the work force once their carers duties lessen.

To not overload people with information (and as we all have the attention span of about 2 paragraphs so if you've made it this far, thank you), I'll make separate posts detailing each one.

Much love and support to you all, Sean x P.S if you would like to support me any way, please do consider looking at my Patreon, which has loads of exclusive stuff!