Budget 2018 - What it means for carers
On the 29th October the Chancellor set out the Government's latest spending plans. Our response gives a brief summary of the key relevant spending commitments and an assessment of the impact of the Budget measures for carers.
The 2018 Budget included some measures that will ease the pressure on some families and these are to be welcomed. However, overall it did not make the spending commitments to improving financial support for unpaid carers or the investment in the care services that are absolutely crucial.
A further £650 million will be made available for local authorities for social care spending in 2019/20. The Budget also provides councils with an additional £55 million in 2018-19 for the Disabled Facilities Grant.
Further measures announced to Universal Credit for those with low earnings and further transitional protections for those currently receiving the Severe Disability Premium look like welcome changes.