Fraser Kemp, MP for Houghton and Washington east, has called on carers to check if they are eligible for new benefits.
A reform of the system means councils can provide services, or payments instead of services, based on carers' needs.
Mr Kemp urged people to ring the Carers UK hotline, on 020 7566 7610, for an information pack
Comments: Our rules
We want our comments to be a lively and valuable part of our community - a place where readers can debate and engage with the most important local issues. The ability to comment on our stories is a privilege, not a right, however, and that privilege may be withdrawn if it is abused or misused.
Please report any comments that break our rules.
Read the rules hereComments are closed on this article