Carers
Carer's Allowance is a means-tested payment for carers who look after certain people in need of full-time care and attention on a full time basis. If you are in receipt of another social welfare payment and you are providing someone with full time care and attention you may qualify for a reduced rate of carer’s allowance in addition to your original payment.
From 14th March 2005, two carers who are providing care on a part-time basis in an established pattern can now be accommodated on the carer's allowance scheme.
Carer's Benefit is a payment for people who have made social insurance contributions and who have recently left the workforce and are looking after somebody in need of full-time care and attention. You can get carer’s benefit for a total of 2 years for each person being cared for. You may be eligible for carer’s leave.
The Respite Care Grant is an annual payment for full-time carers who look after certain people in need of full-time care and attention. The payment is made regardless of the carer's means but is subject to certain conditions.
The Domiciliary Care Allowance is a monthly means tested payment to the carer of a child with a severe disability who lives at home.