Liberal Democrat Janice Spalding announces £250 carer’s bonus for 1,010 carers in Basingstoke

Liberal Democrats will give people give 1,010 carers in Basingstoke a £250 'Carer's Bonus' for looking after loved ones who are older, disabled or seriously ill.

The annual payment would be a boost to an army of unsung heroes who work tirelessly to care for their friends and relatives.

This policy is part of a £150m package to help make the lives of Britain's 6.5 million carers that bit easier. It forms part of our Disability Manifesto published today.

The measures include:

• A new Carer's Passport to allow unpaid carers certain privileges, that could include free hospital parking, free cinema tickets and free gym sessions.
• Increasing 'care leave' by five days and extending the 'earning limit' to allow carers to work more without losing their Carer's Allowance.
• Create a cross-government Carer's Champion to ensure carers get a voice at the heart of government.

Janice Spalding: "Currently 1,010 adults in Basingstoke are supporting a family member who is older, disabled or seriously ill. I know there are also lot of young carers in our community as the Basingstoke Hockey Club which I am a member did some fund raising for the Basingstoke Young carers.

"Carers are the unsung heroes in our community, quietly going about helping their loved ones without seeking favour or thanks for their kindness.

"But more needs to be done to help carers get the support they deserve - which is why I'm so proud to support our Disability Manifesto. The £250 bonus can make a real difference to carers' lives.

"If you are a carer worried about Tory cuts making it harder to get support for you and your loved ones, or Labour's refusal to make any promises on desperately needed NHS funding then only a vote for the Lib Dems will guarantee you a fair pay deal."