My disabled pensioner partner and I (his carer) have just been transitioned from working tax credit to universal credit. I was looking forward to receiving carers premium as well as carers allowance but it seems, I won’t.
The carers premium (approx £197 a month) is there on our statement, but UC deduct approx £355 a month because I get carers allowance.
I’ve already had 7 years of my pension taken. I thought the carers premium would mean I get an addition to my carers allowance but UC just give with one hand, and take more with the other hand. This feels deeply unfair. My mental health is really suffering.
I believe Universal credit is a punitive benefit and designed to give people as little financial help as possible for maximum effort by the claimant. It’s worth checking you are getting the maximum financial help you can have.
You could contact the helpline;
For information and signposting, our telephone Helpline is available on 0808 808 7777 from Monday to Friday, 9am – 6pm (including Bank Holidays).
If you have a more complex query or would like more detailed guidance, we suggest you contact our email Helpline (advice@carersuk.org), as we’ll be able to provide more information.
I feel very deeply about your situation as it is relatable to a similar situation I find myself in right now.
It feels that there is nothing that can be done but there is support around that can lead you in the right direction.
I am new to this site as I am looking for support myself and If you read my post created today it may shine a light on what can be done although it all takes time and we must be patient and optimistic.
Keep smiling and stay strong.