The New Brunswick government is introducing a new benefit for people who provide informal care to help their loved ones remain independent.
A source close to the program tells The Canadian Press that the government has budgeted $11.3 million for the benefits this year to help primary informal caregivers.
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They’re defined as a person who provides regular, ongoing care and assistance without pay to someone in need of support due to a physical, cognitive or mental health condition.
An informal caregiver may include a spouse, parent, adult child, other relative, friend or neighbour.
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The non-taxable, monthly benefit is only available to an eligible primary informal caregiver of a social development client receiving in-home services through the long-term care or disability support services program.
The government is expected to release more details on Monday.