(de-news.net) – Germany’s Minister for Family Affairs, Karin Prien (CDU), has expressed the intention to introduce the new social benefit of a caregivers’ allowance as a form of wage replacement for family members undertaking caregiving responsibilities. In media statements, she reportedly explained this by stating the fact that, given the country’s demographic trajectory, it would no longer be feasible for professional caregivers alone to meet the demands of elder care.

When asked about possible approaches to its introduction, Prien is said to have indicated that multiple options existed, noting that a range of variants could be contemplated. Considerations, she suggested, might include aspects such as the duration of eligibility, the level of financial support, or a socially graded structure of the allowance.