leaving job to care for elderly parents

chiefs

at the moment i work for NHS, been with them for 8 years, i have handed my notice in as i need to look after my parents one is 95 and other in ide 80's, i understand i can claim, carers allowance, would i be able to claim income support, i have a wife and 4 year old daughter

thanks

charlie..._7

you may actually be penalised for 'handing in your notice' from DWP resulting in non payment of benefits for a total of 26 weeks. i would hope that your not though

good luck

healy

charlie... wrote: »

you may actually be penalised for 'handing in your notice' from DWP resulting in non payment of benefits for a total of 26 weeks. i would hope that your not though

good luck

There could be a sanction if JSA is claimed. Here there would not be a sanction.

Oldernotwiser

chiefs wrote: »

at the moment i work for NHS, been with them for 8 years, i have handed my notice in as i need to look after my parents one is 95 and other in ide 80's, i understand i can claim, carers allowance, would i be able to claim income support, i have a wife and 4 year old daughter

thanks

You can only claim Carer's Allowance if at least one of your parents receives disability benefits. Does your wife work?

chiefs

your reply --- You can only claim Carer's Allowance if at least one of your parents receives disability benefits. Does your wife work?
#=================================================

both my parents recieve attendance allowance, my wife is a carer for my dad, i was hoping to be care for my mum, and my wife is not working as shes a carer

thanks

cattie

Can't your wife care for your mother too? Seems silly to be thinking of giving up a good job to become a carer when there is already somebody in situ helping to care for one of the parents.

If the parents needs are really bad enough to need constant care then why not look into getting a care package from social services?

Mojisola

cattie wrote: »

If the parents needs are really bad enough to need constant care then why not look into getting a care package from social services?

There's a world of difference between carers rushing in and out several times a day and the OP's parents having caring relatives looking after them. I know which I'd prefer.

chiefs

the thing is, its really stressful for her, looking after 2 people, bathing , cooking, dressing, medications, preparation of food, theres alot more invloved, than what people think and my parents are not happy with other people doing the care, and taking them to appointments etc.

one is 95 and uses stick to walk, other has dementia.

lemonjelly

Yes, you can both claim carers allowance.

Assuming you have savings below £16k, & are on a low income, you/wife can claim income support for the pair of you.

Child tax credits for the kids.

If you rent - claim housing benefit.
Also, apply for council tax benefit.

chiefs

thanks so much for the info

lemonjelly

You shaould actually get a small extra amount of IS as carers. Once you've claimed, & got a decision notice, get someone to double check it, to make sure they've got it right.;)