A charity is sounding the alarm over how little unpaid carers get for the huge job they do. Carers UK says the benefit known as Carer’s Allowance works out to just £2.47 an hour from April 2026. This comes after a small rise takes the weekly payment to £86.45 for at least 35 hours of care each week. The group calls it the lowest benefit of its kind and wants a full review to make the system fairer. Many carers juggle this role with little money left for themselves, and the charity argues the rules are outdated in today’s world.
The Current Payment and How It Breaks Down
Right now, Carer’s Allowance sits at £83.30 a week. From April 6 2026, it goes up by £3.15 to £86.45. To get it, you must care for someone at least 35 hours a week, and that person needs to claim certain disability benefits. You can earn up to £204 a week from other work before losing the full amount. Carers UK points out that dividing £86.45 by 35 hours gives roughly £2.47 per hour. That is far below the National Living Wage and shows how little support there is for people who often give up jobs or social lives to care.
Here is a simple table of the key figures:
| Detail | Current (2025/26) | From April 2026 | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weekly Carer’s Allowance | £83.30 | £86.45 | +£3.15 |
| Earnings limit per week | £196 | £204 | +£8 |
| Hours of care needed weekly | 35 | 35 | No change |
| Hourly rate equivalent | About £2.38 | £2.47 | Slight rise |
These numbers come from official government uprating plans based on inflation.
Why Carers UK Wants a Big Review
The charity says the benefit has not kept pace with real life. Carers often face high costs for travel, heating, or special equipment. Many live in poverty, with over 60 percent struggling to make ends meet. The strict earnings rule acts like a cliff edge. Earn even a penny over the limit and you lose the whole £86.45 that week. Carers UK wants changes to the eligibility rules, how it links with other benefits, and a fairer way to handle extra earnings. They argue a proper review would help carers stay financially secure while they keep providing vital care.
The Human Side of Caring
Millions look after family or friends with illnesses or disabilities. It saves the NHS and social care billions each year. Yet carers themselves often feel forgotten. Some cut back on food or heating to get by. Others cannot afford breaks or holidays. The low payment adds stress at a time when people already feel worn out. Campaigners hear stories of carers who want to work more but fear losing the allowance completely. A better system could let them earn a bit extra without big penalties.
Government Steps and Ongoing Issues
The government has made some moves after recent reviews into overpayments. Thousands who got into debt from confusing rules may see help. The earnings limit did rise, which is welcome. But Carers UK says these tweaks do not go far enough. The benefit still lags behind others, and the hourly value stays shockingly low. Ministers say they keep the system under watch, but charities push for bolder reforms soon.
What Could Change If a Review Happens
A full look at Carer’s Allowance might bring:
- A higher weekly amount to match living costs better
- A tapered earnings rule so you lose only part of the benefit if you earn more
- Easier rules on who can claim and how it works with other support
- Extra help for carers in tough financial spots
These steps could make a real difference to family life.
FAQs
How much is Carer’s Allowance from April 2026?
It rises to £86.45 per week for caring at least 35 hours.
Why does it work out to £2.47 an hour?
That is £86.45 divided by 35 hours of care required each week.
Can I earn money and still get it?
Yes, up to £204 a week after deductions. Go over and you risk losing it all.
Who runs the campaign for change?
Carers UK leads the call for a full review of the benefit rules.
What if I think I qualify?
Check on gov.uk or contact Carers UK for advice on claiming.
Last updated: 11 Mar 2026 (UK Time)
