Written question asked by Iris Robinson (Democratic Unionist Party) on Tuesday, 5 October 2004, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Thursday, 14 October 2004. It was answered by Lord Spellar (Labour) on Thursday, 14 October 2004 on behalf of the Northern Ireland Office.

Northern Ireland Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland, what benefits are available for people reaching state pension age who still care for elderly parents or relatives in their retirement.

Answer: Mrs. Iris Robinson: To ask the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland what benefits are available for people reaching state pension age who still care for elderly parents or relatives in their retirement. [190178] Mr. Spellar: Carers of any age may be entitled to the full range of social security benefits depending on their individual circumstances. The most common benefits for carers of pensionable age are carer's allowance, retirement pension and pension credit. Many carers reaching pension age who are entitled to carer's allowance are also entitled to a retirement pension of an equal or higher amount. In these circumstances the overlapping benefits rules preclude the payment of carer's allowance. However, entitlement to carer's allowance is retained, allowing for extra help to be given to those entitled to pension credit.

Secondary information