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Amazon is selling a garden gadget for £50 instead of £94 – customers are calling it a ‘major time-saver’

Garden owners are flocking online to pick up a ‘brilliant’ and ‘powerful’ gadget that’s 47% cheaper right now.

Amazon has slashed the cost of a hugely popular garden paint sprayer from £94.49 to £49.99.

Wagner FenceSprayer paint sprayer.

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Amazon has slashed the cost of this ‘powerful and lightweight’ fence and decking paint sprayer by 47%

Wagner Fence & Decking Paint Sprayer, £49.99 (was £94.49)

The sun’s out, the weather is glorious, and summer is nearly here.

The UK is currently basking in a glorious heatwave, with temperatures soaring and some Brits being hit with a drought warning.

With all this extra time being spent outdoors, it’s no wonder Brits want to give their gardens a bit of a spruce-up.

And if your decking or fence is looking a little ragged, it’s Amazon you need to head to.

The Wagner Fence & Decking Paint Sprayer, now 47% cheaper in this May deal, is Amazon’s number one best-selling paint sprayer.

This sprayer is made for small to medium jobs like fences, sheds, decking, and garden furniture.

You don’t need any fancy sprayable paint either – it works with normal fence paint, oil, varnish, stains, and wood treatments.

It’s got some cracking features to make the job easier.

You can adjust the paint flow for precise painting and switch the paint jet to suit what you’re working on.

The gun’s detachable, so it’s dead easy to clean, refill, or swap attachments, and has a decent 1.4-litre capacity.

It can reportedly spray a whole fence panel in under two minutes.

We’ve not tried it ourselves, but over 4,300 people on Amazon have, and they’ve left it with an average 4.5 out of 5-star rating.

“Wish I’d purchased this sooner!” one happy shopper writes. “If you’re looking for a fence/decking sprayer to do the job – this thing is more than adequate!

“Best £50 I’ve spent in a LONG time!! Fantastic product, easy to use and most importantly – a major time saver!!!”

Another said: “Excellent coverage. Powerful and lightweight. Totally impressed with this machine.

“I still can’t believe how good it paints and how fast. In no time we have garden benches and fence panels that look as good as new.”

One more added, “Works like a dream… Brilliant!

“I was dubious about getting this as I had tried pump-type sprayers before, but they were useless. The results were brilliant, quick and easy.”

If your shed, fences, or garden furniture need sprucing up, now’s the time to sort it out – ahead of the summer months.

Wagner Fence & Decking Paint Sprayer, £49.99 (was £94.49)

Shoppers looking for other gardening items should check out these tried and tested round-ups of the best chainsaws and best solar lights for the garden.

Green-fingered shoppers who love gardening might also want to snap up this deal on a summer flowering bulb collection, which is half the usual price.

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Pretty UK city just 5-miles from major city without crowds of tourists

This Somerset village offers a wealth of green spaces, woodlands and hamlets to explore – reachable by foot or bike. It is also a designated part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

A view from garden towards Freshford - Homewood Park Hotel & Spa,  Abbey Lane, Freshford, Bath
The village of Freshford includes the small hamlets of Friary, Sharpstone, Park Corner, Woodside and Staples Hill(Image: Bath Chronicle)

If you’re in need of some staycation inspiration, then this Somerset destination should definitely be on your radar. Close enough to Bath that you can enjoy the comforts of the city while remaining distinctly on the outskirts, visitors can enjoy the best of both worlds.

Freshford is just five miles from Bath, but its location at the junction of the River Frome and Avon makes it feel like a world away. The village’s landscape of stone buildings, fields and woodlands create a distinct serenity to the area that has been unmarred by tourists – mostly because it is relatively under the radar.

The civil parish of Freshford dates back to Saxon times and was once home to a mill from 1086 – the remains of which still stand in the village to this day. The mill is a notable site of interest, home to 17th-century buildings made predominantly from natural stone, clay tile, and slate. One of the unique features of Freshford houses is its lack of house numbers, which are replaced instead with names.

READ MORE: Magical UK village just as pretty as Bath but without as many tourists

Freshford is also home to many sites of historical interest, one of which is the Freshford Manor which dates back to the 18th-century. There are also some religious buildings you can visit, including the 15th-century St Peter’s Church which has been designated by English Heritage as a Grade II* listed building.

Image of River Frome and surrounding landscape
The Freshford Bridge stretches across the River Frome(Image: Publicity Picture)

Dating back to the early to mid 16th century, the Freshford Bridge stretches directly over the River Frome and is a truly picture-perfect spot. From Freshford, travellers will be able to see across the Avon valley to the Kennet and Avon Canal. But keep in mind, the nearest crossings are a bit further off at Avoncliff and Limpley Stoke.

Surrounded by hills and valleys, the village has plenty for nature-lovers to explore without needing to venture too far. Freshford is known for its rich diversity of flora and fauna and is even part of the Cotswolds Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB) within the green belt.

The village centre is also a conservation area, created during 1975 and extended in 2007. You would also be remiss not to stop by at the nearby hamlets of Friary, Sharpstone, Park Corner, Woodside and Staples Hill.

Freshford’s jurisdiction includes these hamlets, though they are all separated from the centre of the village by lush open fields. That said, visitors can make a day of exploring the many low-intensity paths to the surrounding hamlets.

Image of exterior of the Homewood Park Hotel & Spa in Freshford
The Homewood Park Hotel & Spa is one of the premium accommodations in the area(Image: Bath Chronicle)

Popular walks in and around Freshford

  • The Ilford Loop : 2 hours and 4.5 miles long: beginning from the Freshford Galleries, you can head directly to the hamlet of Friary
  • Circular Hike to Dundas Wharf : 2 hours and 5 miles long: This is an intermediate hike with one or two busy roads to cross. It leads from the Freshford Galleries down to Limpley Stoke.
  • Farleigh Hungerford Loop : 2.5 hours and 5 miles long: A great country walk across open fields to the English Heritage site at Farleigh Hungerford Castle.
  • Hike to Avoncliff Aqueduct : 1.15 hours and 2.85 miles long: This is a low-intensity walk from Freshford to Avoncliff along the River Frome and then the River Avon.

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Shoppers rush to major supermarket to clear shelves of ‘mystery’ flavour Pringles scanning for just 98p – down from £2

BARGAIN-hunting Brits are rushing to a major supermarket to grab a limited-edition ‘mystery’ flavour of Pringles for just 98p.

The curious crisps have been spotted at Sainsbury’s stores across the UK, where eagle-eyed shoppers have clocked the Super Mario-themed “Mystery Flavour” 165g cans being cleared from shelves in a flash.

Pringles Mario Mystery Flavor cans on clearance.

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A photo of the discounted snack was shared on FacebookCredit: Facebook
Hand holding a can of Pringles Super Mario Mystery Flavor.

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Sparking a flurry of comments from snack fans desperate to uncover the flavourCredit: Facebook

A photo of the discounted snack was shared on Facebook, sparking a flurry of comments from snack fans desperate to uncover the flavour.

One user wrote: “I would love to know the flavour please, thanks.”

Speculation has run wild online, with people offering their best guesses.

“My partner had them, said they tasted like salt and vinegar,” one person commented.

Another added: “Bit spicy – should’ve read the ingredients on the box.

“Nothing to go wild about.”

Others reckoned the crisps were meant to mimic classic Italian flavours, with one writing: “They’re supposed to be like a pepperoni pizza flavour but they weren’t nice,” while another suggested: “I think they are spicy meatball flavour.”

One fan said: “They mostly taste pickled onion flavour,” and another chimed in: “I believe they’re random flavours – hence the mystery.”

The Mario-themed cans are part of a special Pringles line featuring multiple mystery flavours – and Pringles isn’t spilling the beans just yet.

Fans have been left to rely on their own taste buds, with theories ranging from ketchup and spaghetti to “Magic Mushroom” flavour, a cheeky nod to the iconic Nintendo game.

The mystery surrounding these crisps has sparked plenty of debate online, with many fans expressing their excitement over the flavour hunt.

One Facebook user even joked: “I can’t wait to open one and see if it tastes like the power-ups Mario collects!”

It’s not the first time Pringles has teased taste buds with a mystery range.

Previous surprise flavours have included carbonara, Southern Fried Chicken, and Pickle – each of which garnered mixed reactions from shoppers.

This latest release seems to have struck a chord with fans, though, who are eager to get their hands on the elusive taste.

For those intrigued by the Mario connection, it’s clear that the theme has added an extra layer of excitement to this mystery.

With Super Mario’s popularity ever-growing, it’s no wonder that fans are flocking to the supermarket to get their hands on the latest Pringles craze.

In the midst of this snack craze, Pringles continues to dominate the crisp world with their bold experiments and limited-edition offerings.

Whether it’s a mysterious flavour or a nod to a beloved gaming character, the brand knows how to keep fans guessing.

And with Doritos also hinting at a major shake-up – possibly ditching their iconic triangle shape for a square – it seems the crisp aisle is full of surprises this month.

How to save money on your supermarket shop

THERE are plenty of ways to save on your grocery shop.

You can look out for yellow or red stickers on products, which show when they’ve been reduced.

If the food is fresh, you’ll have to eat it quickly or freeze it for another time.

Making a list should also save you money, as you’ll be less likely to make any rash purchases when you get to the supermarket.

Going own brand can be one easy way to save hundreds of pounds a year on your food bills too.

This means ditching “finest” or “luxury” products and instead going for “own” or value” type of lines.

Plenty of supermarkets run wonky veg and fruit schemes where you can get cheap prices if they’re misshapen or imperfect.

For example, Lidl runs its Waste Not scheme, offering boxes of 5kg of fruit and vegetables for just £1.50.

If you’re on a low income and a parent, you may be able to get up to £442 a year in Healthy Start vouchers to use at the supermarket too.

Plus, many councils offer supermarket vouchers as part of the Household Support Fund.

Illustration of Pringles cans.

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The Mario-themed cans are part of a special Pringles line featuring multiple mystery flavours – and Pringles isn’t spilling the beans just yetCredit: Reuters

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Five major new railways that will transform European train travel

New train lines running between European cities including Copenhagen and Hamburg, Tallinn and Vilnius, and Budapest and Belgrade will transform how passengers get around the Continent

Passengers in a OuiGo TGV train and view from the train window to the track
The train lines will transform rail travel in Europe(Image: Hans Lucas/AFP via Getty Images)

A series of massive rail projects is currently underway, with train travel in Europe likely to look very different in less than ten years from how it does today.

In the UK we are a little too used to rail projects dragging on and on, facing as many delays as a standard Sunday afternoon service. Phase one of the HS2 high-speed railway project, connecting London to Birmingham, is currently expected to open between 2029 and 2033. That will be up to 13 years after building work began.

While continental European rail projects are also liable to be hit by delays, there are a few big projects that are currently well underway that should be completed within the next few years.

Hamburg to Copenhagen

The vast undersea tunnel is being built and will carry two rail lines and a pair of two-lane highways under the Baltic Sea. Construction of the Fehmarnbelt tunnel has started on the shores of the Baltic Sea, in the south of Denmark. Once finished it will link the country and Germany. The project will be the world’s longest road and rail tunnel, and the world’s longest immersed tunnel, stretching 11.2 miles.

‌The tunnel will enable both freight and commuter traffic, reducing carbon emissions, freeing up capacity on the roads and railways, and moving freight from lorries to more environmentally friendly electric trains.

READ MORE: UK train firms launch ‘Clubcard’ schemes with free tickets – but there’s a catch

View of the building site as King Frederick X attends the Inauguration of the Fehmarnbelt Tunnel
The tunnel is due to be completed in 2029(Image: Getty Images)

Currently, travellers heading between Hamburg in Germany, and Copenhagen in Denmark, have to take a five-hour train journey. However, when the tunnel opens, the journey time will be cut in half, with the tunnel stretching from the Danish island of Lolland to the German island of Fehmarn. In total, the project will cost €7.4 billion (£6.2 billion) and is set to be completed in 2029.

Budapest to Belgrade

It is currently possible to travel between these two great cities on the Danube, but it takes a while and three changes. Next year that will change when a high-speed line built with Chinese backing gets going. The difference in effort required as well as the length of journey will be significant. Passengers will be whisked between the two cities in just two hours and 40 minutes instead of seven.

Tallinn to Vilnius

By 2030, the two Baltic capitals will be connected by a high-speed line that will cover a huge distance. Right now it takes close to ten hours to get between Estonia’s Tallinn in the far north to Lithuania’s Vilnius in the south. It will also go through Latvia’s Riga on the way.

READ MORE: £4 tickets from UK cities to Cornwall on offer – but you’ll need to act fastREAD MORE: Owner of Pontins holiday park ‘frozen in time’ given three-word demand

The travel time from Tallinn to Vilnius will be cut down to three hours and 38 minutes and cost €38. Trains will run every two hours, with two night trains each night.

Not only will the train line provide a fast and affordable way to get across the Baltic states, it will introduce a completely different gauge into the country. The three former Soviet republics will swap their 1,520mm tracks for 1,435mm, meaning integration with other European railways will be possible, the Telegraph reports.

Vilnius skyline, Lithuania
The train line will make getting to Vilnius on the rails much easier (Image: Getty)

Turin to Lyon

This one will take a little longer to complete, with the launch date slated for 2033. While the destinations at either end may sound a little less hefty than other projects, this scheme is a big one.

It will see the construction of the longest rail tunnel in the world at 57.5km. The Mont d’Ambin Base Tunnel will cut through the Alps from the Susa Valley in Piedmont and Maurienne in Savoie, reducing the journey time between Paris and Milan to four and a half hours, a reduction of more than two hours.

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Spain to Morocco

Satellite image of the Strait of Gibraltar
The dream of linking the two continents is a longstanding one(Image: Getty Images)

A vast £6bn tunnel connecting Spain to Africa has been on the cards for years, but in the last few months it has seemed that it will become a reality. Studies are being conducted into the feasiblity of an underwater railway crossing linking Europe and Africa. And deadline for the completion of the project will be 2030 according to reports.

The £6billion tunnel will allow a high-speed railway service to run under one of the most famous cargo routes in the world, the Strait of Gibraltar, Moroccan National Company for Strait Studies is reportedly trying to source funding for the project.

It is estimated to span 28km with its lowest point 475m below sea level. The underwater crossing is tipped to connect Punta Paloma in southern Spain and Malabata, near Tangier, Morocco. Both nations want the tunnel built in time for the 2030 football World Cup which is expected to be held in Spain, Portugal and Morocco. The football competition would be the first to be held in three countries and would cover two continents with Africa holding its first competition since 2010.

Just this week the Spanish government committed €1.63 million to a feasibility study on the scheme.

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Europe’s BIGGEST McDonald’s opens in major Brit holiday hotspot just in time for summer holidays

MCDONALD’S has opened its biggest site in Europe in a major Brit holiday hotspot – and it’s come just in time for the summer holidays.

The fast-food giant has launched a huge location in the airport of sun-drenched Majorca – and it measures up at over 10,000 square feet.

Europe's largest McDonald's restaurant at Palma de Mallorca Airport.

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Europe’s biggest McDonald’s has opened in MajorcaCredit: Jam Press/McDonalds
Interior of a large McDonald's restaurant at an airport.

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It measures up at a whopping 10,765 square feetCredit: Jam Press/McDonalds
Palma de Mallorca Airport exterior with passengers and cars.

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It is part of a new renovation in Module A or Palma de Mallorca Airport in SpainCredit: Jam Press/McDonalds

The big Maccies includes eight digital kiosks, eight production lines as well as table service and McCafé products.

The launch of the massive site marks the company’s largest on the entire continent.

Around 750,000 Brits travel to Majorca every summer, so the chain will be sure to endure its fair share of hungry Brit holidaymakers.

The enormous branch is located at Level P30, Module A Airside of Palma de Mallorca Airport in the Spanish island.

It measures up at a whopping 10,765 square feet.

The terminal has also recently undergone refurbishment work to improve passenger comfort and security, and retail space.

The new site is part of this extraordinary renovation in Module A.

And it is seemingly very exclusive to Brits – as the McDonald’s will only be available to non-Schengen countries, according to What’s The Jam.

This means most European countries won’t be able to access it – paving the way for Brits and other international visitors to raid the kiosks.

The incredible new branch has reportedly created 200 new jobs, on top of the 1,000 workers already employed in the Balearic Islands.

Chief Restaurant Officer of McDonald’s Spain Ángel Castillo said: “This opening represents a new milestone and another example of our commitment to the Balearic Islands.”

He called the region “an area of strategic interest for the company where we already have over 20 restaurants“.

The spokesperson continued: “We are thereby contributing to the Spanish economy and the creation of quality employment, fulfilling our mission of supporting the communities where we operate.”

There are already 43,500 McDonald’s locations in over 100 countries worldwide.

And the biggest McDonald’s on the entire planet is located in Orlando, Florida.

Known as the Epic McD, this behemoth fast-food chain measures in at a whopping 19,000 square feet.

Meanwhile, the UK’s biggest McDonald’s is a “Disneyland for fast food fans” with nearly 300 seats and unique features.

The giant restaurant, in Formby on Merseyside, showcases “the latest innovations from McDonald’s”.

Interior of a large McDonald's restaurant with yellow chairs and wooden tables.

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The groundbreaking site created 200 new jobsCredit: Jam Press/McDonalds

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Crete holiday warning for Brits as major earthquake sparks tsunami fears

The magnitude of the earthquake has since been updated to 6.0 as a tsunami warning was issued after the earthquake struck near the coast of Crete, which is the most populous of the Greek islands

Aerial view of Agios Nikolaos seaside town and harbor by the blue sea, Crete, Greece
Crete has been hit by a strong earthquake (Image: Roberto Moiola / Sysaworld via Getty Images)

Holidaymakers in Crete have been warned to steer clear of coastal areas amid tsunami concerns following an earthquake.

An urgent tsunami alert was sounded on the Greek island this morning after a significant 5.9 magnitude tremor hit near the coast of Crete, Greece‘s most densely populated island. The Ministry for Climate Crisis and Civil Protection in Greece subsequently announced: “A magnitude 5.9 earthquake occurred 48km SE of Kasos. Risk of possible Tsunami in your area. Move away from the coast immediately. Follow the instructions of Local Authorities.”

The quake’s magnitude has been revised to 6.0 since the initial reports. Coastal alerts were issued this morning in regions frequented by holidaymakers from all over Europe, including Brits.

For those with travel plans to Greece who are reconsidering their trip in light of the earthquake, it’s crucial to understand your legal position and refund entitlements.

Have you been impacted by the earthquake? Email [email protected]

READ MORE: Greece earthquake: TUI sends honeymoon duo terrifying ‘get to high ground’ alert hours after landing

People in the street in Crete
Holidaymakers rushed out of their beds this morning(Image: Supplied)

This issue is particularly pertinent at present, as several top European holiday spots have recently been affected by natural calamities, power outages, and social unrest, prompting many travellers to think about cancelling their forthcoming holidays.

This advisory follows a recent caution from the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) to tourists planning trips to Turkey after a 6.2-magnitude quake struck Istanbul on April 23.

The FCDO has issued a warning that “many parts of Turkey regularly experience earthquakes and ‎tremors”, cautioning that these natural events can be “high magnitude, cause damage to infrastructure, and pose ‎a risk to life”. ‎.

In other news, Spain and Portugal have been plunged into disarray due to an unexpected blackout, leaving millions, including British holidaymakers, in chaos.

Tourists flocking to Spanish destinations like the Balearic and Canary Islands are being alerted about possible upsets this summer, as local activist groups are set to intensify their anti-tourism demonstrations.

A map of the earthquake epicentre
The 6.3 magnitude earthquake struck off of the island of Crete

With travel abroad currently fraught with unpredictability, the specialists at Tiger.co.uk are advising Brits to verify cancellation policies with their travel insurers if they’re considering pulling out of their plans and seeking reimbursement.

Regrettably, standard insurance packages typically don’t cover travellers who simply decide against going on their trip – a situation referred to as ‘disinclination to travel’ within the insurance industry, where providers usually won’t compensate.

However, there’s an important caveat: when the FCDO advises against travel to a particular area, such as it has done for regions of Turkey within 10km of the Syrian border due to “fighting and a heightened risk of terrorism”, travel companies are obligated to offer either a full refund or alternative arrangements. It’s vital to note that travelling to a location against FCDO advice is likely to nullify any travel insurance coverage.

As of 11am on May 14, the FCDO has yet to issue guidance on the earthquake that struck Greece.

Ian Wilson, a travel insurance specialist and managing director at Tiger.co.uk, commented: “While the chances of being caught up in a natural disaster or civil unrest while abroad are relatively small, it is understandable that some travellers will have concerns about safety and potential disruption to their holidays this summer and may be thinking of cancelling their trip.”

He warned that: “However – unless the UK Foreign Office has issued official advice against travel to your chosen destination – you will most likely be left out of pocket if you choose to cancel, as tour operators or insurance providers are not obligated to refund you for having a change of heart.”

He further explained that: “Most standard travel insurance policies contain cancellation cover which provides cover if your holiday can’t go ahead, but this will only apply in circumstances beyond your control, such as a sudden illness or the death of a close relative.”

Stressing the fallout of personal decisions, he said: “In short, if you decide you no longer want to travel but the provider says the trip can still go ahead, you will have limited grounds to seek reimbursement.”

For those still anxious about travelling, Wilson advised: “However, if you have a trip booked and are still worried about travelling, you may want to consider looking into travel disruption insurance, which offers protection for a wider range of risks, should the unexpected happen.

“This means that if your holiday is impacted by a natural disaster, an outbreak of civil unrest or sudden airline strike, you are likely to be protected financially.

“When planning your holiday abroad, it is important to do some research to ensure your intended destination is safe for tourists. The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office has a red list of over 70 countries that have no-go zones for UK travellers, and visiting these areas could invalidate your travel insurance.

“Always make sure you check the destination on the FCDO website and look out for any warnings against travel before you book a trip.”

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M&S reveals customers’ personal information was STOLEN in major cyber attack update

M&S has issued a major cyber attack update revealing that customers information has been stolen.

The retail chain is still scrambling to keep stores running as the fallout continues.

M&S store exterior with cars in the parking lot.

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In a statement posted on Instagram, M&S said: “As we continue to manage the current cyber incident, we have written to customers today to let them know that unfortunately, some personal customer information has been taken.

“Importantly, there is no evidence that the information has been shared and it does not include useable card or payment details, or account passwords, so there is no need for customers to take any action.

“To give customers extra peace of mind, they will be prompted to reset their password the next time they visit or log on to their M&S account and we have shared information on how to stay safe online.

“Everyone at M&S is working around the clock to get things back to normal for our customers as quickly as possible, and we are very sorry for any inconvenience they have experienced. Our stores remain open as they have throughout.

“Thank you for shopping with us and for your continued support, we are incredibly grateful.”

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Over 150,000 will see benefit payments cut under major PIP changes, DWP confirms – are you affected?

OVER 150,000 on benefits will see their payments cut under Personal Independence Payments (PIP) changes, the DWP has confirmed.

The Government is shaking up the way PIP is assessed meaning hundreds of thousands will miss out from November 2026.

Worried middle-aged couple reviewing financial documents.

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The way PIP is assessed will change from November 2026Credit: Getty

It comes as ministers look to cut the increasing welfare bill by clawing back billions of pounds of benefits.

But the changes will also have a knock-on effect on carers who qualify for benefits because they look after someone on PIP.

From late next year, new and existing PIP claimants being reassessed will have to score a minimum of four points in at least one activity to receive the Daily Living Component.

The higher rate of the Daily Living Component is currently worth £110.40 a week.

Claimants will also have to score at least eight points when being assessed.

The Government estimates this means by 2029/30 around 800,000 won’t receive the Daily Living Component of PIP.

But it has also confirmed 150,000 will be missing out on Carer’s Allowance or the Universal Credit Carer’s Element by 2029/30 too.

This is because to receive either of these carer’s benefits you have to be caring for someone who receives the Daily Living part of PIP.

It means new and existing PIP claimants finding they are no longer eligible will disqualify their carer’s from next November when the changes kick in.

What are Carer’s Allowance and the carer’s element of Universal Credit?

Carer’s Allowance is paid to those caring for someone else (who is on benefits) for at least 35 hours a week and is worth £83.30 a week.

Three key benefits that YOU could be missing out on, and one even gives you a free TV Licence

You don’t have to be related to the person you care for, or live with them, to qualify.

If you are on Carer’s Allowance you also receive National Insurance credits which contribute to your NI record.

What classes as someone needing “care” is based on them qualifying for a number of benefits. These are:

  • Personal Independence Payment – Daily Living Component
  • Disability Living Allowance – the middle or highest care rate
  • Scottish Adult Disability Living Allowance – the middle or highest care rate
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Pension Age Disability Payment
  • Constant Attendance Allowance at or above the normal maximum rate with an Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
  • Constant Attendance Allowance at the basic (full day) rate with a War Disablement Pension
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment
  • Child Disability Payment – the middle or highest care rate
  • Adult Disability Payment – daily living component at the standard or enhanced rate

The person you are caring for must also need help with certain tasks including: washing and cooking, being taken to the doctors and household tasks like managing bills or going food shopping.

Carer’s Allowance is issued to those living in England, Wales or Scotland aged 16 or over.

It’s worth noting, receiving Carer’s Allowance can impact the benefits the person you are caring for gets.

For example, they will usually stop receiving a severe disability premium or an extra amount for severe disability premium if they are on Pension Credit.

You can apply for Carer’s Allowance and find out more about the exact eligibility criteria via www.gov.uk/carers-allowance/how-to-claim.

The carer’s element of Universal Credit is added to your Universal Credit standard allowance if you care for someone and they receive a number of qualifying benefits. These are:

  • Adult Disability Payment – standard or enhanced award
  • Armed Forces Independence Payment
  • Attendance Allowance
  • Child Disability Payment – middle or highest care award
  • Constant Attendance Allowance – full day rate, intermediate rate or exceptional rate with Industrial Injuries Disablement Benefit
  • Constant Attendance Allowance – full day rate with a War Disablement Pension
  • Disability Living Allowance – middle or highest care rate
  • Personal Independence Payment – either rate of the Daily Living Part

To get the carer’s element you’ll also need to be providing 35 hours a week of care to the person receiving the qualifying benefit.

You get an extra monthly amount worth £201.68.

If you are receiving an extra amount because you have a limited capability for work and work related activity (LCWRA), you won’t qualify for the extra carer’s element part.

Meanwhile, if the person you care for gets the severe disability premium, it will stop when you claim the carer’s element of Universal Credit.

Are you missing out on benefits?

YOU can use a benefits calculator to help check that you are not missing out on money you are entitled to

Charity Turn2Us’ benefits calculator works out what you could get.

Entitledto’s free calculator determines whether you qualify for various benefits, tax credit and Universal Credit.

MoneySavingExpert.com and charity StepChange both have benefits tools powered by Entitledto’s data.

You can use Policy in Practice’s calculator to determine which benefits you could receive and how much cash you’ll have left over each month after paying for housing costs.

Your exact entitlement will only be clear when you make a claim, but calculators can indicate what you might be eligible for.

Do you have a money problem that needs sorting? Get in touch by emailing [email protected].

Plus, you can join our Sun Money Chats and Tips Facebook group to share your tips and stories

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