§ Mr. BlizzardTo ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many carers over 65 years of age have(a) claimed and (b) received carers allowance since 28 October 2002. [115902]
§ Maria EagleThe information is in the table and relates to the period 28 October 2002 to 31 December 2002. The majority of carers aged 65 and over who qualify for carer's allowance also receive a state pension of an equal or higher amount. In these circumstances, the overlapping benefits rules preclude the payment of carer's allowance. However, people affected in this way can, if they are on a low income, qualify for the carer premium payable with income related benefits.
Number Claims 9,950 Entitled 7,615 In payment 325 Notes.
1. Figures are rounded to the nearest five.
2. Figures refer to the number of people making a claim and each person may have made more than one claim. Figures relate to people aged 65 and over; State Pension age is 60 for women and 65 for men.
3. Figures exclude advance claims made prior to 28 October 2002.
Source:
100 per cent data from the CA Computer System (CACS) supplied by Information and Analysis Directorate. Figures are at 31 December 2002.