WIRRAL MP Matthew Patrick has spoken in Parliament about carers “pushed to breaking point” by the Carer’s Allowance overpayment scandal.

The MP for Wirral West shared the experiences of Wirral carers in the House of Commons, many of whom have faced anxiety over the potential financial impact of repayments and the pressures of balancing care work with day-to-day life.

Under the previous Conservative government, a large number of carers were made to pay back thousands of pounds over minor or inadvertent breaches of the Carer’s Allowance earnings threshold.

Secretary of State for Work and Pensions Liz Kendall has announced an independent review into this situation, to be led by former Disability Rights UK chief executive Liz Sayce.

The review will investigate how overpayments of Carer’s Allowance have occurred, what can best be done to support those who have accrued them, and how to reduce the risk of these problems occurring in future.

Speaking in the House of Commons, Matthew paid tribute to carers in the community and the “selflessness and dedication” they embody.

He said: “At times of immense need, they step in. Day after day, supporting family members, making such an important contribution to their loved ones and our community.

“Our country would simply not function without them, without their contribution.”

He also criticised the approach of the previous government, saying the crisis was “left to grow” and “totally ignored” while carers suffered.

Mr Patrick said the review announced would deliver long-overdue stability to carers who have faced anxiety over the scandal.

Closing his speech, he expressed hope that carers would “feel valued and listened to” and that “the issues they feel are important are brought to light”. He said: “I welcome today’s announcement and hope that with it, our brilliant carers know that this is a government that is on their side.”