Cllr Luke Cawley-Harrison, Leader of the Liberal Democrat Opposition in Haringey has written to Haringey Council’s Chief Executive calling for an urgent review of the accuracy of the information on the council’s website. The request comes after Money Saving Expert Martin Lewis criticised the council for sharing misleading or inaccurate information about financial support for unpaid carers, potentially leading to vulnerable households missing out on money they’re due.
There are several financial benefits available for unpaid carers, each with its own eligibility rules, however the MSE investigation lists Haringey as one of dozens of councils whose websites display incorrect information. Martin Lewis advises carers to visit Carers UK for the most reliable information instead.
Councils also have a legal duty to carry out a “carer’s assessment”, to check whether a carer’s own physical or mental health and wellbeing is at risk because of their caring responsibilities. MSE has criticised councils for implying that this assessment is the route to access financial support. Assessments might result in a referral for some practical support (either from a local community organisation or from a paid carer), but to get financial assistance, carers must make a separate application.
The Haringey Lib Dem leader has received confirmation from the council that they will update the information on their website “ASAP” following his request.
The Liberal Democrats have a proud record of standing up for carers, whilst the other parties neglect this hugely important issue.
At a local level, as recently as last month the party questioned Haringey’s Cabinet members on what work they are doing to become a carer-friendly employer, and challenged the council to demonstrate support for council staff who are also carers.
