Debt

Carers face extra financial pressures and crisis when caring as they are often forced to reduce hours or need to give up work and face the extra costs of disability and ill health. Research has shown the wide range of costs faced by families with caring responsibilities, for example, higher spending on typical household costs such as utilities, food and transport. In addition to this are the costs of disability-related spending, like care services, equipment, cleaning products and home adaptations.

It can be difficult to face up to debt and money issues, especially with the added pressures of caring. There is lots of free, confidential help and advice available and it’s important to get the help and advice as early as possible. It is important to check any entitlement to disability or carers benefits that you and the person you care for may have. If you are still in paid work you should also check your employment rights as a carer.

Below is a list of free, confidential services who can offer debt and money advice:

Citizens Advice
Civil Legal Advice – if your home is at risk
Money Advice Service
National Debtline