Carers in Reading are due to get a boost to their income in recognition of the vital support they provide to their loved ones.

People who spend at least 35 hours a week looking after someone else can often be eligible for extra money called Carer's Allowance.

Now, a measure in the Labour government budget will see a boost to the amount these carers can earn while retaining their Carer's Allowance entitlement.

The change in policy has been welcomed by Olivia Bailey, the Labour MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire, with the measure set to help out more than 1,300 carers in her constituency.

Olivia Bailey, the Labour MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire. Credit: Olivia BaileyOlivia Bailey, the Labour MP for Reading West and Mid Berkshire. Credit: Olivia Bailey

She said: "I know from my own experience how important care within the family can be.

"So, I am delighted that the Budget is boosting the earnings threshold by £45 a week to £196 – the biggest ever cash increase in the earnings threshold for Carer’s Allowance.

"This measure comes alongside the independent review into Carer’s Allowance Overpayments which the Government has launched following concerns about carers unknowingly accruing large amounts of overpayments of Carer’s Allowance – to ensure that such a situation doesn’t occur in the future."

According to the advocacy organisation Carers UK, the change will mean that more carers will be able to access Carer’s Allowance as a result.