Government to announce support option for carers

Carers will be able to see which support options the government is considering, along with its findings.

The government is set to announce their options for support for carers by the end of January.

They're publishing their findings, a summary of a review, and what they're considering giving to islanders looking after loved ones with a disability.

The review looked into financial support currently available for islanders looking after loved ones, and advice from the Disability and Inclusion Advisory Group to ensure any future changes reflect the needs of patients and their carers.

Minister for Social Security, Deputy Lyndsay Feltham, says carers make an extraordinary contribution to our island.

"We are committed to ensuring they have the information, resources, and support they need.

"These steps mark the beginning of a stronger, more connected system for carers in Jersey.

"We are working closely with carers and their families as well as States Members and community organisations to make sure we are listening and developing plans that directly address the needs of carers that are fair, effective and sustainable.

"This work is the beginning and will continue to expand over the coming months. I want to reassure carers and their families that I am committed to making sure they have the right support in place focusing on where it’s needed the most."

It's part of a review into the benefits system, which will include a new three-tier Long-term Disability Allowance.

Jersey's Government HQ

The financial support that is available to carers and people with care needs today includes:

Income Support for low-income households – families with a carer or someone who needs care may also qualify for extra support on top of standard living components:

• Carer’s Allowance – £71.61 per week
• Ancillary Care Costs Component – £31.29 per week
• Personal Care Components – up to £198.03 per week
• Mobility Component - £31.64 per week
• Home Carer’s Allowance (HCA) – provides £295.75 per week under the contributory Social Security Scheme. At pension age, Islanders receiving HCA can choose to continue with HCA or switch to their Old Age Pension – whichever is more beneficial. This concession is unique to carers who do not have a full pension record, ensuring they still receive 100% contributory benefit entitlement.
• Long Term Care scheme – supports adults (aged 18 and above) with ongoing long term care needs. Weekly benefits are based on a range of factors with the maximum payment being £1,451.13 per week for care costs and £507.22 for living costs in a care home. 
• Child personal care – benefit available to a family that includes a child with a long-term disability – paid at £138.11 or £198.03 a week.