Let’s hear it for the carers
In Wiltshire, tens of thousands of people give up their time and their employment prospects to care for loved ones. The vast majority are women, and some are young. Their selfless sacrifice means their current incomes and future pensions suffer. Meanwhile, Wiltshire Council saves a lot of money. Those cared for actually stay at home rather than going into homes which the council would have to fund.
Wiltshire’s carers do a remarkable job. They face big challenges every single day made even harder by Coronavirus. They need our support but are far too often forgotten and ignored. Saying “thank you” to these amazing people is important, but it is not enough.
A £1,000 a year increase in the Carers Allowance would help. It would also show that those of us who do not have to face this challenge care too. It’s the least our carers deserve.
The new Lib Dem Leader Ed Davey MP knows the reality of caring. As a teenager, he looked after his sick mother. He is Dad to his disabled son.
I hope you will join me in backing his campaign. It is also supported by the main carers charities. Please support an extra £1,000 a year for the Carers Allowance by adding your name at https://change.libdems.org.uk/carers.
Yours sincerely
Cllr Ian Thorn
Wiltshire Lib Dem Group Leader