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Government's Carer Allowance Failures Leave Thousands in Debt

11/25/2025

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Summary

Story summary

The review found hundreds of thousands of unpaid carers face debt due to government failures in administering carer’s allowance.
The findings show penalties were issued in error, causing hardship for carers, including jail time.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) failed to notify carers of overpayments, allowing debts to accumulate.
The government plans to cancel or reduce penalties but has not promised compensation, according to Carers UK.

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Story summary

The review found hundreds of thousands of unpaid carers face debt due to government failures in administering carer’s allowance.
The findings show penalties were issued in error, causing hardship for carers, including jail time.
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) failed to notify carers of overpayments, allowing debts to accumulate.
The government plans to cancel or reduce penalties but has not promised compensation, according to Carers UK.