In the framework of Carers Week 2024, Carers UK just published their Carers Week report: No Choice But To Care, which finds that 10 million adults which is 62% – of current and former unpaid carers had no choice in taking on their caring role.

While providing unpaid care can be rewarding, it also comes with significant negative impacts on carers’ lives. The research revealed that the impact of caring has been more negative than positive for all areas unpaid carers were asked about, particularly for their physical (53%) and mental health (63%), employment (48%) and finances and savings (47%). The negative impacts as a result of caring were also felt most strongly by those who had no choice but to take on an unpaid caring role as well as women and those aged 45-54.

In the year of a General Election, unpaid carers need recognition and commitment from all political parties and the next Government more than ever. 73% of members of the public surveyed for the research think that unpaid carers should receive more support from the next Government, particularly financial support and investment in social care.

The profound and encompassing effects that caring can have on people’s lives means that an ambitious and comprehensive National Carers Strategy is needed in England and Wales to bring together different Government Departments to better support unpaid carers.

If your organisation would like to support Carers Week on social media, please do make use of the social media pack we have put together, which also has links to some infographics of the research.