What does it mean to be an unpaid carer? An unpaid carer is someone who looks after a family member, friend, or neighbour who cannot manage without their support due to illness, disability, mental health concerns, addiction, or age-related issues. Unlike professional carers, unpaid carers are not employed by a company or local authority to provide care. Even those who receive 'Carer's Allowance' are still considered unpaid carers, as they are not part of formal caregiving services but rather step in out of necessity and compassion.
Who Are Unpaid Carers?
Unpaid carers come from all walks of life and often don't realize that what they do qualifies as "caregiving." This lack of recognition can lead to many carers not accessing the support they’re entitled to. Here are some common examples of unpaid carers who might not see themselves as such:
These are just a few examples of the many forms unpaid care can take. The role is often invisible, yet the impact is profound, both for the person receiving care and for the carer themselves.
The Scale and Impact of Unpaid Care
As of 2024, an estimated 7 million people in the UK are currently providing unpaid care, with 9.1 million having provided care in the past, bringing the total to 16.1 million current or former unpaid carers. Despite their vital contribution, many unpaid carers experience significant challenges:
Why Self-Identification Matters
Despite the critical role they play, a large percentage of unpaid carers do not self-identify as carers. This can prevent them from accessing the support and resources they need. Identifying as a carer is the first step toward receiving help, whether it's financial assistance, respite care , or simply connecting with others in similar situations.
If you or someone you know is providing support to a person who would struggle without it, you may be an unpaid carer. Recognizing this role is crucial for accessing the benefits, support, and services that are available to help manage the challenges of caregiving.
The Importance of Awareness and Support
Unpaid carers are the backbone of the UK's social care system. They provide billions of pounds worth of care, saving the economy from additional strain. Yet, they often do so without recognition or adequate support. By increasing awareness of what it means to be an unpaid carer, we can help ensure that these individuals receive the assistance and appreciation they deserve.
If you think you might be an unpaid carer, or if you know someone who might be, it's important to reach out for support. Whether through government programs, local charities, or community networks, there are resources available to help you carry out your vital role without sacrificing your own well-being.
Resources for Unpaid Carers
1. Carers Card UK
Website:
https://www.carerscarduk.co.uk/
Carers Card UK offers identification cards for carers, which can be incredibly
useful in various situations such as hospitals, schools, and shops, or even
during emergencies. Beyond identification, the Carers Card provides access to a
dedicated app that offers a range of benefits, from well-being resources to
discounts.
2. Carers in Bedfordshire
Website:
https://www.carersinbeds.org.uk
Carers in Bedfordshire is a registered charity dedicated to supporting unpaid
carers of all ages across Bedfordshire. Established in 2004, the charity offers
information, support, and advice to help carers manage their roles while also
looking after their own well-being. Their services include experienced carer
support workers, counselling, wellbeing sessions, support groups, workshops, and
a memory navigation service for those living with dementia and their carers.
They also work closely with local and national agencies to provide specialised
support and can assist carers in accessing grants and other resources.
3. The Carers Trust
Website:
https://carers.org/grants-and-discounts/introduction
The Carers Trust provides local support for carers and can sometimes offer
grants for essential items or respite breaks. Their mission is to ensure that
carers receive the practical help they need to continue providing care while
also taking care of their own needs.
4. Turn2us
Website:
https://www.turn2us.org.uk/get-support/information-for-your-situation/carer
Turn2us is an organization that helps carers find financial support through
their grants search tool. This tool enables carers to explore charitable funds
they might be eligible for, providing crucial financial assistance to help
manage the costs associated with caregiving.
5. Local Council Carer’s Assessments
Many local councils offer Carer's Assessments to determine the support that
carers might need. Following an assessment, carers may be eligible for personal
budgets, which can be used to fund respite care , training, or help with
household tasks, ensuring they receive the support necessary to manage their
caregiving responsibilities effectively.
