Call for more financial help for unpaid carers

People caring for sick and disabled relatives should get extra cash for ‘propping up” the health and care system, a charity says.

A survey by Carers UK says out of 10 unpaid carers are struggling to make ends meet, pushing thousands of families into poverty and having a lasting impact on their finances and quality of life.

A further 18% are in or have been in debt due to their caring responsibilities, and of those struggling to make ends meet, 24% are eating into their savings, 14% are relying on credit cards and 12% are borrowing money from family and friends.

Carers UK polled 8,119 unpaid carers between August and September for its latest report, The State Of Caring 2021.

Carers UK chief executive Helen Walker said unpaid carers have propped up the health and care system for years "at a huge cost" to their own health and finances and now "desperately" need support.

She said: "We are seeing unprecedented levels of stress where financial worry is piling yet more pressure on carers."

The charity said the Government should raise the level of carers' benefits and explore introducing an additional payment for carers over state pension age.

A Government spokesperson said: "We recognise the valuable role of unpaid carers and since 2010 we have increased carer's allowance putting an additional £700 a year in carers' pockets.

"We remain committed to helping them financially, along with their health, wellbeing and employment chances, and those in receipt of carer's allowance may be entitled to other support, including benefits."