What’s the effect of voluntary caring on people in the UK?
In its latest report on the state of caring in the UK, Carers UK has identified many challenges facing carers across their lives – both while caring and into the future. We summarise the costs of caring here in terms of financial, physical and mental impact.
You may recognise yourself here. If so, the study shows that you are not alone.
If you’re about to take on a caring role, it may be valuable to know in advance about the challenges you may face. It may help you to plan for to alleviate some of the stress in advance.
About unpaid carers in the UK
The study found that an astonishing 5.8 million people provide unpaid care in the UK. With respondents across the four countries, but predominantly from England, those who responded to the survey were almost entirely White British females.
Financial costs of caring
The increasing cost of living and insufficient financial support from local authorities are having a significant impact on carers. Half report they’ve cut back on essentials such as food and heating, with many spending their own money on care costs. A third said they were contributing more than £100 monthly. And a third say they’ve taken out loans to try to cover the costs they’re incurring. Even those eligible for Carers Allowance are in many cases struggling to make ends meet.
Human costs of caring
Caring responsibilities are having an adverse effect on the physical and mental health of carers. Stress, anxiety, depression and poor sleep are reported by many. Loneliness and losing touch with family and friends are also mentioned regularly.
That gets worse if carers increase the number of hours they spend caring. They are at risk of being unable to engage in personal interests and career development.
As well as physical caring, carers face significant administrative burdens. Complex systems and bureaucracy hinder access to support. Some report spending more than 20 hours a month on admin. This workload contributes to feelings of being overwhelmed and stressed.
Challenge of working and caring
From a work and career perspective, many say their career has taken second place to caring, and some feel trapped in lower-paid or unfulfilling roles. A third have reduced their working hours, while 20% have moved to part-time work. Around 600 people a day give up work altogether to focus on caring. Not surprisingly, many are worried about the long-term financial impact of caring.
For those who continue to work, workplace relationships are also suffering. There’s little time to build connections, and those who must take time off for caring commitments can feel that their colleagues resent rather than support them.
Carers’ Struggles with Health and Nutrition
Carers often neglect their own health and nutrition due to time constraints and financial pressures. They don’t have the energy or time to maintain a balanced diet or exercise programme, often relying on convenience food. Some say they often postpone their own medical appointments because caring responsibilities come first.
Long-Term Impact After Caring Ends
Former carers often face financial difficulties after their caregiving responsibilities. Losing access to benefits such as Carers Allowance and other support. And there may be immediate expenses, such as funerals, to cover.
Carers can experience both feelings of loss and lack of purpose once the caring role ends. And carers can continue to face health issues, such ad chronic fatigue and mental health challenges.
A Vision for the Future of Carers
Carers envision a society that recognises and supports their contributions and needs. They would like to see more recognition for their vital roles in health and social care.
Carers are calling for increased financial support to prevent poverty, and better access to respite services and health support.
- Carers seek more recognition for their vital roles in health and social care
- They call for increased financial support to prevent poverty among carers
- Carers desire better access to respite services and health support
Recommendations for Government Action
Carers UK says new social contract for carers is essential to address their challenges and support their contributions. The organisation argues that:
- The UK Government should develop a National Carers Strategy to improve outcomes for carers
- Financial support, including an increase in Carer’s Allowance, is necessary to alleviate poverty
- Accessible social care services and employment protections for carers are crucial for their wellbeing.
The good news
This all sounds like depressing news all round, but you don’t have to do this alone. CarersUK offers help, support and advice to carers across the UK. You can find excellent guidance on the website at carers.org, where as well as practical advice, you can connect with other carers and join campaigns for better support.