A cost of living support must be given to carers, Alliance MLA Kellie Armstrong has said.

The Strangford MLA was speaking after Chancellor Rishi Sunak announced a cost of living support for those in receipt of certain benefits, who will receive two payments totalling £650.

“These payments are welcome and will help those in receipt of the qualifying benefits,” said Ms Armstrong.

“However, those in receipt of carers’ allowance will not qualify, alongside other benefits such as jobseeker’s allowance and employment and support allowance. Many people in Northern Ireland will miss out because they are only on these benefits.

“The Communities Minister needs to consider solutions to support these people cope with the ongoing financial crisis. Carers are at breaking point and being left behind yet again. Without increased support, there could be another major crisis on our hands.”