| His question to Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, David Blunkett, on the financial penalties suffered by people who act as carers, particularly in the loss of pension, has produced an encouraging response, he said today.
Mr McGovern said, “Whilst the scale of the pensions crisis is becoming readily apparent, it is important that we do not forget those who do not have the chance to invest huge amounts in occupational pensions due to the non-paid nature of the work they do.”
The MP pointed out that it is estimated carers save the country £57 billion each year, yet the decision to care can mean a commitment to future poverty.
There are 481,579 carers in Scotland alone, the majority of them women. People aged between 45 and 64 are also more likely to be carers looking after elderly relatives.
In his reply during departmental question time at the House of Commons, Mr Blunkett agreed that more could be done.
He said, “One of the key issues we will want to address in the autumn is how people can be provided with accreditation during the period for which they are involved in caring, which the current home protection does not do.”
Mr McGovern said, “The issue is a key one and I am glad he is giving it his full attention as this autumn’s root and branch analysis of pensions policy continues.” |
