Advice and Advocacy for Carers

Kingston Carers’ Network helps carers of all ages by providing information, advice and support on a range of subjects including carers’ rights, welfare benefits and other entitlements, Lasting Powers of Attorney, health and social care services and more.

We also have a dedicated Benefits and Tribunal Representative who is able to provide carers with detailed advice and support around a range of benefit related issues including: 

• assistance at each stage in the claims process

• carrying out benefit checks

• completing claim forms

• preparation for and providing advocacy at appeal hearings

Appeals are submitted on a wide range of issues including eligibility, complex calculations, and disputes around disability and caring.  We assist carers by gathering evidence, preparing written representations and attending and representing them at tribunal hearings.  We have achieved very substantial financial gains for carers, from claims and appeals.

We also influence changes in laws and policies affecting carers.  For example, members of the team attended consultation meetings on the government implementation of the Care Act and also meetings at the local Job Centre concerning benefit changes and the support for carers and we provide briefing sessions on changes impacting on carers, such as changes to benefits.