CARERS' RIGHTS DAY 2009 CAMPAIGN

That this House notes that 4 December is Carers' Rights Day 2009; congratulates the organisers of the 1,500 events taking place across the UK which will inform carers about their rights and entitlements; further notes that Carers UK and the Department for Work and Pensions are calling on carers to check that they get all the financial help and practical support to which they may be entitled, including their future pension entitlement; welcomes changes to the state pension coming into force in April 2010, including the new Carers Credit which will help carers to protect their pension in the future; expresses concern about new Carers UK research which found that over a third of carers had missed out on benefits, leading them to struggle financially and risk their own health; and calls on all professionals who come into contact with carers to encourage them to find out about their rights and to recommend that they contact Carers UK.