Submission on the Position of Full-time Carers

The recent increase in respite care grants, together with the introduction of the Carer's Leave Act 2001 and the increase in income disregard in the means test for Carer's Allowance are welcome improvements to the entitlements of carers. However, whilst providing some measure of support, it is arguable that the current measures do not adequately assist carers.

It is our intention in this submission to concentrate on the Social Welfare entitlements of carers, highlighting what FLAC believes are necessary changes to the current system in order to ensure adequate recognition of the valuable contribution of carers. It is also intended to scrutinise the Carer's Leave Act 2001 which FLAC feels fails to provide sufficient support and flexibility to carers.