Putting Carers on the Map: A Call to Action for Carers Week 2024

Carers Week 2024 comes at a critical time as we approach a general election year. The theme "Putting carers on the map" aims to galvanise action to highlight the increasing pressures on carers and to campaign for much-needed recognition and support. As a wellbeing training provider, Ripple&Co are committed to supporting carers in the workforce by offering practical tools and resources that can help alleviate some of the burdens they face daily.

Unpaid carers are often referred to as the unseen workforce. They provide invaluable support to family members, friends, or neighbours due to disability, illness, or old age. According to the No Choice But to Care report from Carers UK, approximately 10 million adults in the UK have provided or are currently providing unpaid care. Astonishingly, 62% of these carers felt they had no choice but to take on this role due to the lack of alternative care options.

The report reveals that while caring can be rewarding, it comes with significant negative impacts. For instance, 63% of carers reported that their mental health has suffered, 53% experienced a decline in physical health, 48% faced challenges in maintaining their jobs, and 47% saw a detrimental effect on their finances and savings. These statistics highlight the urgent need for comprehensive support systems to assist carers in balancing their responsibilities and personal wellbeing.

Financial Strain and Employment Challenges

One of the most pressing issues for carers is the financial strain that comes with their responsibilities. The low level of social security benefits and inadequate structures to support carers in maintaining paid employment exacerbate this problem. Many carers struggle to find time for themselves or to take a break from their duties, leading to lower financial resilience and fewer opportunities for career advancement.

The economic value of unpaid care is immense, estimated at £162 billion annually - equivalent to the cost of the NHS. Despite this, carers often face significant financial hardships. The general public recognises this, with    and invest in social care to enable carers to take necessary breaks.

Mental Health Crisis

The mental health of carers is another critical area of concern. The report indicates that 63% of current and former unpaid carers experienced negative impacts on their mental health, with 24% describing the impact as very negative. Carers often experience high levels of stress, anxiety, and isolation, which can lead to severe mental health issues. The lack of accessible, good-quality, and affordable support exacerbates these problems.

Gender and Age Disparities

The burden of caring is not distributed evenly across the population. Women are more likely than men to report negative impacts on their physical and mental health, employment, and financial stability due to caring responsibilities. Those aged 45-54 are particularly affected, with 70% of carers in this age group reporting they had no choice but to take on their roles.

The Need for Policy Change

As we approach the general election, it is crucial for policymakers to recognise the vital role unpaid carers play in our society. The "No Choice but to Care" report calls for significant action from the next UK and devolved governments. This includes creating a comprehensive package of support that addresses the financial, health, and employment needs of carers. Additionally, the report emphasises the importance of implementing a National Carers Strategy in England and Wales to coordinate initiatives across government departments.

Our Commitment

At Ripple&Co our comprehensive employee wellbeing programmes include support for those with caring responsibilities focusing on practical strategies to manage stress, maintain physical health, and navigate the financial challenges associated with unpaid care. We believe that by providing carers with the right tools and resources, we can help mitigate some of the negative impacts they face and improve their overall quality of life.

Conclusion

Carers Week 2024 is a pivotal moment to advocate for the recognition and support that unpaid carers deserve. By putting carers on the map, we can raise awareness of their contributions and the challenges they face. It is time for policymakers, employers, and communities to step up and ensure that carers receive the support they need to continue their invaluable work. Together, we can create a more supportive environment where carers are valued and their wellbeing is prioritised.

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