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Open Make students studying less than 35 hours a week eligible for carers allowance

Created by Shania Marcela Barros-Pullen
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The DWP states that anybody in “full time” education, even if they only attend classes 2-3 days a week, is not eligible to receive carer's allowance. We believe this is unsustainable. Anyone attending classes for less than 35 hours a week (equivalent to a full-time job) should be eligible.

Evidence shows young adult carers are 3x more likely to be out of education, employment, and training. Anyone making more than £204, or studying more than 21 hours per week, loses their carer's allowance, so the stats make sense. People should not have to choose between investing in their future and financial support. If I attend uni for 21 hours a week, I'd still care for my family member for more than 35 hours a week. It punishes people who still do care work for trying to improve their lives.

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    This petition will stay open until 30 October 2026.