Family carers are the unsung heroes of our society, providing vital support to others who are ill, disabled, or elderly. Despite their immense contributions, many family carers face significant challenges and inequalities. This year’s Carers Week report 2025 sheds light on these issues and offers valuable insights into the experiences of family carers.
In the UK, nearly half of the adult population has provided unpaid care at some point in their lives, with 11.9 million individuals currently caring for family members and friends. This staggering number highlights the widespread nature of caring and the crucial role carers play in our communities. Every day, 12,000 people become unpaid family carers, and the value of their support across the UK has reached an astonishing £184 billion a year.
Family Carers often struggle with their own health and wellbeing due to the demands of their caring role. The report reveals that 43% of current and former family carers have had a mental or physical health condition develop or worsen since they began caring. Many family carers cancel or postpone their own medical appointments because they cannot find a suitable time or lack the support needed to attend. This can lead to long-term health issues and exacerbate existing conditions.
Financial worries are a significant concern for family carers, with nearly half of current and former carers disadvantaged in relation to their finances. The report highlights the need for more financial support from the government to address these inequalities.
Caring responsibilities can also affect carers’ social lives and employment opportunities with over half of current and former carers facing disadvantages in their ability to enjoy a social life. Many family carers reduce their social interactions due to the demands of their caring role, leading to feelings of isolation and loneliness.
Employment challenges are prevalent among carers, with 46% of current and former carers in employment facing disadvantages in staying in paid work and career opportunities. A quarter of carers have had to reduce their working hours to care, impacting their income and ability to save for the future. This can have long-term consequences on their financial stability and career progression.
Support Needed for Carers
This year’s Carers Week report emphasizes the need for tailored support to address the unique challenges faced by family carers.
Financial support from the government is crucial, with 43% of carers stating that this would help address the disadvantages they face. Yet the measures outlined in the Pathways to Work: Reforming Benefits and Support to Get Britain Working Green Paper will result in a £500 million reduction in spending on financial support for carers. Please join the campaign to stop the Government’s welfare reform proposals by signing an open letter to the Prime Minister
More opportunities for carers to take breaks and access affordable social care services are also essential to prevent health conditions from developing or worsening.
Carers need better identification and support from healthcare professionals, as well as more flexibility at work to balance their caring responsibilities. You can tell us what this means for you by completing our short survey for working carers. To project their rights family carers need stronger legal protection from discrimination and improved access to education and qualifications are also necessary to ensure carers have equal opportunities in life.
Family carers are invaluable to our society, yet they often face significant challenges and inequalities. The Carers Week report 2025 highlights the need for greater recognition and support for carers to ensure they have equal access to opportunities and can thrive alongside their loved ones. By addressing these issues, we can create a more inclusive and supportive environment for unpaid carers, allowing them to continue their vital work without sacrificing their own health and wellbeing.
