The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is facing renewed criticism over its handling of benefit payments, leaving unpaid carers with significant potential debts despite being notified of changes in circumstances. Chris Farrell, 65, a former full-time carer, has spoken out about the distressing experience he endured when his Carer's Allowance continued for six months after his husband's death, potentially creating a debt of over £1,300.
Despite repeatedly trying to inform the DWP, Mr Farrell received payments until an inquiry by The Guardian prompted the department to write off the overpayment, attributing it to official error. He has urged the DWP to improve its processes, saying that individuals should not be left with uncertainty and potential penalties when they try to adhere to the rules.
Mr Farrell's case is just one of several instances highlighted by charity Carers UK, which has identified carers who have amassed over £2,000 in unwanted benefit payments after their circumstances changed. One individual was unable to stop payments for over a year after taking on a new job that made them ineligible, resulting in an overpayment of more than £2,650.
Chief Executive of Carers UK Helen Walker has expressed concern about the ongoing stress and confusion faced by carers who continue to receive money they know they are not entitled to. She notes that without clear information on recovery actions or the ultimate amount owed, carers struggle to budget or plan for the future, living with the constant worry of potential debt.
Carers are legally required to inform the DWP of various changes, including when they start or stop caring, begin a new job, exceed weekly earnings limits, or alter their address or marital status. The repeated failures to process these notifications have led campaigners to argue that persistent DWP system deficiencies hinder carers from securely reporting eligibility changes, leaving them vulnerable to penalties and causing significant emotional strain.
Carers UK is calling for the DWP to review its systems to prevent such errors and provide clearer guidance on recovery actions. Mr Farrell has pledged to donate his overpaid money to a food bank, highlighting the unintended consequences of the DWP's inefficiencies.