Carers may still qualify for limited payments

I WAS pleased to see Kelly Andrew’s article (Irish Examiner, June 24) highlighting the plight of the many unpaid carers.

However, the summary of the means test included in her article may discourage people who would actually qualify for the payment from applying for it.

It should be pointed out that even if people do not qualify for the full payment, they may still receive a reduced payment.

For example, a carer who is part of a couple may have a household income of almost €€700 or a single carer may earn in excess of €345 and still qualify for a minimum payment.

They would also benefit from the additional support of the Free Travel Scheme, the Household Benefit Package and the annual Respite Care Grant of €735, all of which anyone who qualifies for even the minimum payment is entitled to.

Anyone who is within this income range and fulfils the other qualifying conditions would, therefore, be advised to apply for the allowance.

Judy Bamford,

Citizens Information Call Centre,

The Heritage Business Park,

Bessboro Road,

Blackrock,

Cork.