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While there has been a lot of discussion concerning carer’s allowance and paid work (More than 250 UK unpaid carers risk prosecution over benefit overpayments, 14 November), I have not read anything about the fact that the allowance usually ceases when you reach state pension age.
I am 65 years old. I had to give up work in 2010 to look after my son, who has gone through years of depression and anxiety following a late autism diagnosis. I missed out on 14 years of paid work and the ability to pay into an occupational pension.
I am also one of the unlucky ones who has had to wait six extra years before I will receive my state pension. I have saved the government a great deal of money by becoming a full-time carer for my son and also by not receiving my state pension until the age of 66.
Now, to my utter disgust, I find out that, once I reach 66, I will no longer be entitled to carer’s allowance as I will be receiving my pension. I am still a full-time carer, just a much older, worn-out one! You don’t stop caring at 66. There must be so many others in a similar position, and I think it is scandalous.
Ali Wilson
Morecambe, Lancashire
