McLeod “delighted” with Conference Carers’ Allowance anouncement

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> In her closing speech at the SNP National Conference on Saturday 17th October, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon confirmed that Carer’s Allowance would command a specific commitment in the Scottish Social Security Bill, which she has pledged will be published in the first year of the new Parliament.
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> The First Minister explained that the Bill would to make use of limited new welfare powers, with fairness and dignity at its heart. She stated that Carer’s Allowance would be paid at the same level as Jobseekers’ Allowance, and would bring an end to the benefit being the lowest paid available to those of working age.
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> Commenting, Aileen said:
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> “I am delighted with this announcement, which will see around 1,790 carers in Dumfries and Galloway receive a higher rate of Carer’s Allowance than they currently do. The work of carers is invaluable in terms of assisting people to be cared for in their own environments, often by their own families, friends or those they trust.
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> “This announcement means that recipients of Carers’ Allowance will be better off by £600 a year. Once again, the Scottish Government is doing what it can to help those most in need, with the resources available to it. It is right that Carer’s Allowance should cease to be the lowest paid benefit.”
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