Lib Dems to promise bonus for carers in their 'disability manifesto'

The more than 6.5m carers in Britain could receive £250 more per year

Lib Dem leader Nick Clegg and local candidate Jane Dodds meet staff and patients at Llanidloes and District War Memorial Hospital in Powys, Wales, on Wednesday (PA)

Britain’s army of 6.5 million carers could receive a £250-a-year “bonus” under a £150m package to be proposed by the Liberal Democrats.

Nick Clegg will outline measures to help the estimated one in eight adults who provide unpaid care for family and friends. Those looking after family members requiring support for 35 hours or more each week over a 12 month period would qualify for a £125 bonus from 2017-18, funded by a levy on tobacco companies, and rising eventually to £250.

Carers could get an extra five days paid additional “care leave” a year. They would be allowed to do more work without losing their Carer’s Allowance by extending their “earnings limit” from £110 to £150 per week.

The NHS would have a legal duty to identify carers and bring in a “carer’s passport” which could allow them free hospital parking and more flexible hospital visiting hours. Major health and entertainment chains would be urged to offer them discounted or free cinema tickets, restaurant meals and gym sessions.

Mr Clegg, who would prioritise the plan if the Lib Dems remain in government, will describe cares as “the unsung heroes of British society, quietly going about helping their loves ones without seeking favour or thanks for their kindness.”

The Deputy Prime Minister will say: “More needs to be done to help carers get the support they deserve. Our carer’s package will ensure society pays back the service that carers give to their loved ones and the community, easing the pressure they are under, and providing the support needed to live happier, more fulfilling lives.”

The Lib Dems would also press for the appointment of a new cross-departmental “Carer’s Champion” to ensure carers get a voice at the heart of government.

Their ideas form part of a “disability manifesto,” which also includes measures to simplify the benefits system, protect benefits for the disabled from any welfare cuts, encourage employers to recruit more disabled people, give the disabled better access to transport and tackle disability hate crimes.