A total of 12,500 carers and former carers took part in the State of Caring online survey this year. 

Carers UK released the Impact of caring on: Finances report which found that unpaid carers are finding it increasingly difficult to afford day-to-day living costs, with the worry and anxiety of this affecting their mental health and wellbeing.  

Carers, particularly those receiving Carer’s Allowance and Universal Credit, are struggling to make ends meet, and many are making difficult choices, such as reducing meal sizes or skipping meals. A majority of carers responding to our survey are now cutting back on social connections, which often provide a vital lifeline helping people to balance caring responsibilities with their own wellbeing.