Commons Sense

House of Commons · Written Ministerial Statement

Publication of the Independent Review into Carer’s Allowance Overpayments and the Government Response

25 November 2025 · Department for Work and Pensions

Proposed by Stephen Timms Lab East Ham

Benefits & Welfare

Summarised by AI from the official record, so it can contain mistakes.

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At a glance

Key points

  • The government accepts 38 out of 40 recommendations from the Independent Review on Carer's Allowance overpayments.
  • The Department will reassess Carer's Allowance cases for incorrect overpayments between 2015 and summer 2025.
  • Detailed actions to address the issues will be outlined by the government in the New Year.

Issue summary

The statement addresses the publication of an independent review into overpayments of Carer’s Allowance linked to earnings and the government's response.

Action requested

The government accepts 38 out of 40 recommendations from the Independent Review, with some changes already implemented. The Department will reassess Carer’s Allowance cases for incorrect overpayments between 2015 and summer 2025 and plans to set out detailed actions in the New Year.

Key facts

  • Some busy carers found themselves with unexpected debts due to overpayments of Carer’s Allowance.
  • Liz Sayce OBE led an Independent Review into these overpayments.
  • The review made 40 recommendations, of which 38 are accepted by the government.
  • 92% of those who receive Carer’s Allowance have a positive experience.
  • Between 2015 and summer 2025, guidance on averaging earnings did not accurately reflect the statutory position.
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