Over 60 percent of current and former unpaid carers said they were left with “no choice” but to take on unpaid caring roles. It amounts to the equivalent of 10 million people, according to the YouGov polling data within the report. Conversely, about 30 percent of current and former unpaid carers said other care options were available, however they chose to undertake the unpaid carer role.
The report suggests the situation may be getting worse for those looking after disabled, older, or ill relatives or friends, with alternative care and support options being reduced over time. It is estimated that around 16.1 million people have been or are currently an unpaid carer in the UK.
Since 2011, the number of hours of unpaid care being provided has increased considerably, with 1.5 million people in England and Wales now caring for over 50 hours a week. One in two Brits will find themselves in the position of providing unpaid care by the time they are 50, with two-thirds of Britons providing care in their lifetime.
Carers UK have called for more government support for carers in Britain from whichever party wins at the general election on July 4. In a press release on Monday to coincide with carers week, the trustee-led organisation said the public widely supports more provision for carers. “We want unpaid carers to know they are not forgotten, and they are not alone.
Many are at breaking point, facing huge challenges with their caring responsibilities,” Ms. Walker said. “On.