§ Ms WalleyTo ask the Secretary of State for Social Security (1) what guidance was issued in respect of new arrangements affecting maximum earnings and allowed expenses for those in receipt of invalid care allowance; and on what date; [10332]
(2) when the new arrangements for invalid care allowance come into effect. [10333]
§ Mr. BurtThe Social Security Benefit (Computation of Earnings) Regulations 1996 and Social Security (Invalid Care Allowance) Amendment Regulations 1996 came into force on 25 November 1996.
For those claiming invalid care allowance for the first time after this date, a leaflet explaining the changes has been inserted in the claim pack. After the regulations had been laid before the House, but before the changes came into force, the Benefits Agency issued a loose-leaf notice in copies of the autumn edition of "Touchbase" magazine. "Touchbase" goes to approximately 90,000 organisations and bodies including libraries, citizens advice bureaux and associations representing carers. Additionally, when a case is due for review, and it appears that the customer will be affected, the customer is notified of the changes.