Issues - My policy positions

Carers credits

New figures show that 4,000 people claimed carers credits in 2016/17 out of the 160,000 who could have done so.

If you are under state pension age and care for someone for at least 20 hours a week, you can claim a credit to help to ensure you get a full state pension when you retire.

One year of credits could fill a gap that could mean an extra £237 a year on a state pension if your pension contributions record is inadequate. Or it could boost a pension, in some circumstances, even if you already have 35 years' contributions.

To get these credits you must be caring for at least 20 hours a week for someone who gets one of the main non-means-tested disability benefits, such as attendance allowance or personal independence payment at the standard or enhanced rate.

Visit gov.uk and search "carer's credit".