Nearly 135,000 people who care for loved ones, dubbed “unsung heroes” by the government, are being pursued for overpayments in their caregiver’s allowance, the majority of whom are women.
The latest data, released in a parliamentary written response, come as ministers are asked to “get a grip on the problem,” which has led to some of the poorest households incurring significant debt.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) stated that it was “progressing an enhanced notification strategy” to warn carers.
Going even £1 over the weekly earnings limit of £151 results in carers losing the entire £81.90 benefit, which must be repaid in full.
