This Carers Week, we are urging readers who care for loved ones and aren’t claiming Carer’s Allowance, to find out about the new Carer’s Credit, which launched in April.

As it’s new, many might not be aware that it exists. In addition, carers may not realise it could even apply to them if they don’t think of looking after a loved one as ‘caring’.

Anyone giving up their time for 20 hours or more a week, whether it’s to help an elderly parent with shopping and cleaning or support a disabled child or ill spouse, could qualify.

Carer’s Credit is not a cash sum but rather a National Insurance credit for the weeks you’ve provided care for others.

It helps people build up the qualifying years they need to get a full basic State Pension when they retire.

Our research shows that one in six carers give up work or reduce their hours in order to look after others. So to find out if you, or someone you know, could be eligible, visit www.direct.gov.uk/carers or call 0845 608 4321 (Telephone) or 0845 604 5312 (Textphone).

Debbie Pollard Carers Unit Manager Department for Work and Pensions