The Welsh Liberal Democrat Assembly Member for South Wales West, Peter Black has welcomed a manifesto promise by his party to see carers receive a bonus worth up to £250-a-year under a future Liberal Democrat government, which would help more than 13,000 people in Swansea, Neath Port Talbot, and Bridgend.
In total more than 63,500 people in Wales would benefit from the Carer's Bonus. The annual payment will help full-time carers get a bit of extra help and recognises the invaluable contribution they make to society.
"For every carer the experience is different, whether they provide support for a friend or family member who is ill, has a disability, mental health issue or an addiction. But common to all carers is the personal commitment that they give to help someone they are close to.
"Carers provide almost 97% of unpaid care in Wales, saving the Welsh economy £7.72 billion a year.
"These are people who deserve our support even in straightened times, which is why the Liberal Democrat manifesto will include a Carer's Bonus paid to those on Carers' Allowance or Carers' Premium to give them a little extra help. On today's figures, that's 5,410 in Swansea; 4,740 in Neath Port Talbot; and 3,330 in Bridgend.
"It's completely up to the carers themselves how they spend it - it's a no strings attached bonus from a nation that is grateful for the superhuman work they do."
The bonus would be worth £125 at the start of the next parliament and would rise to £250-a-year by 2020, with over 63,500 people in Wales eligible. It would be available to anyone who receives the Carer's Allowance or the Carer's Premium.