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The Guardian - UK
The Guardian - UK
Politics
Patrick Butler Social policy editor

DWP’s unchecked database leaves tens of thousands of carers at risk of debt

DWP Peter Schofield
There are more than 150,000 unpaid carers paying back overpayments – and in some cases being prosecuted for fraud – after falling foul of earnings rules.
There are more than 150,000 unpaid carers paying back overpayments – and in some cases being prosecuted for fraud – after falling foul of earnings rules. Photograph: Andrew Matthews/PA

Tens of thousands of unpaid carers are at risk of debt and criminal prosecution because their cases are lying unchecked on a government “alert” database of people being overpaid benefits, according to new figures.

Officials are aware of the mounting number of instances where UK carers are at risk of racking up overpayments that can in some cases lead to crippling debt, but for the past five years have chosen not to investigate all cases..

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