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An ongoing grumble
Increases such as this are a welcome step in the right direction.
However, this latest piecemeal change to earnings disregards just adds to complexity and the confusion among claimants about who can earn what, when.
"You can keep £100 but they will reduce your income support by £80. This means you are better off by £20. Yes I know it says £100, but you can only keep £20".
Moreover, it's all well and good being able to earn £100 a week net if you get CA, but unless earnings disregards for all means tested benefits also increase to the same level, it's a meaningless gesture which disadvantages the poorest carers and which also creates the need for more better-off calculations.
Carers on IB/ESA who are working will also now face an interesting choice about which route is best for them.
I've long been in favour of a single earnings disregard right across all benefits and set at a realistic level (eg higher Permitted Work level). This would be a great simplification, reduce illicit working while claiming and help people back into full time work. The arguments have been well rehearsed by others.
In yer dreams...
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