Almost two million are missing out on vital support because they do not consider themselves carers
- Nearly half of carers are worse off by £5,000 a year
- A quarter of carers have had to spend their savings to cover the costs
By Jenny Hope
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Almost two million carers may be missing out on vital support because they are ‘under the radar’ of official figures, it is feared.
As many as 1.75million of the 6.5million Britons who have responsibilities for looking after loved ones do not consider themselves as carers, says a report.
They are therefore failing to apply for a range of help available to them from local authorities and the health service, as well as charities.
The demands of the role can affect their health and well-being as well as their finances, with nearly half worse off by £5,000 a year.
The report from the Scottish Widows think-tank the Centre for the Modern Family reveals almost one in three adults – 15million Britons – supports friends or family without financial reward in some way.
Most willingly do so and see the role as part of their family duty. (more…)
