As the UK’s population continues to age and health and social care services face increasing pressure, we’re relying more and more on informal carers. It’s important to recognise the significant contribution that informal carers make and the impact this has on their emotional and physical well-being.
An informal carer provides unpaid care and support to a family member, friend, or loved one living with an illness, disability, health condition, or age-related need. They provide a wide range of assistance, such as practical help with daily activities, emotional support, and financial management.
Their efforts are vital, helping the person in their care maintain independence, dignity, and a better quality of life. However, the responsibilities can be emotionally and physically demanding, especially when balanced alongside other commitments like work or parenting.
How many informal carers are there in the UK?
According to Carers UK, there are approximately 5.8 million unpaid carers across the UK. Of these, around 3.5 million are women, and 2.4 million are men. Many juggle their caregiving responsibilities alongside full-time employment, with little to no external support. Carers UK estimates that around 1.9 million people combine full-time work with unpaid care responsibilities.
Informal carers span a wide range of demographics, from young carers (under 18) who support parents or siblings to elderly carers who may be looking after spouses or adult children with long-term conditions.
The contribution of informal carers is valued at £184.3 billion every year. Yet, despite this, many of them face significant hardship. Around 1.2 million informal carers are currently living in poverty, with 1 in 10 experiencing deep poverty, and they are left out of pocket by an average of £207 a month, which amounts to £2,494 per year. This financial burden can translate to feelings of frustration and stress as individuals struggle to balance their own needs and those of the person they’re caring for.
Why do informal carers experience stress?
Informal caregiving can be incredibly rewarding, but it’s also one of the most demanding roles a person can take on. The State of Caring 2024 report by Carers UK highlights that 65% of carers feel overwhelmed because they’ve been unable to take a break. Meanwhile, 35% reported having bad or very bad mental health, and many experience burnout as they struggle to balance their own needs with those of their loved ones.
The stress informal carers face often stems from a combination of factors:
Emotional strain: Caring for a loved one can result in feelings of guilt, anxiety, and isolation. Many carers worry whether they’re doing enough, feel emotionally drained, or miss their previous relationship dynamic with the person they’re caring for.
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Physical health effects:
The physical demands, such as lifting, assisting with mobility, disrupted sleep, or neglecting their own health, can take a toll on a carer’s physical wellbeing. -
Financial pressure:
Reduced working hours, lost income, and the cost of care equipment, transport, or medical needs can create financial strain. Carer’s Allowance, for example, offers just £81.90 per week (as of 2024), which doesn’t come close to covering the real cost of caring. -
Lack of support:
Many informal carers feel alone because they’re unaware of available resources or feel guilty asking for help. Others don’t recognise themselves as carers and so miss out on vital support services.
Recognising signs of carer stress
Because caregiving can become part of daily life, it’s easy to overlook the signs of stress until it becomes overwhelming. Carer stress can show up as:
- Constant fatigue or exhaustion
- Trouble sleeping or frequently falling ill
- Feelings of hopelessness, sadness, or anger
- Withdrawal from social activities or relationships
- Increased anxiety or irritability
Unchecked stress can lead to burnout, affecting both the carer’s well-being and the quality of care they can provide. That’s why it’s so important to seek help early.
Support and resources for informal carers
Thankfully, there is a range of organisations and services offering support for informal carers in the UK.
Charities and organisations like Carers UK, Age UK, and local carer support groups can help you access services, benefits, and emotional support. They offer helplines, forums, and advice on managing caring responsibilities.
Financial help is available through Carer’s Allowance, Carer’s Credit, and income support. If you're employed, you also have the right to request flexible working or carer’s leave.
Respite care is a crucial form of support that allows carers to take breaks while ensuring their loved ones are still cared for. This might involve temporary care in a facility or support from a professional carer at home.
Self-care is essential. Prioritising time for rest, connecting with friends, doing mindfulness exercises, and asking for help when you need it can make a significant difference.
How Complete Care Shop can help informal carers
At Complete Care Shop, we understand the challenges informal carers face, and we’re here to support you every step of the way.
Our help and advice blog has a wealth of useful guides on various health conditions and some of the products we stock. We offer a comprehensive range of mobility aids and daily living aids to help make life easier for both you and your loved one. Whether that’s a grab rail for safer bathroom access, a pressure relief cushion, or a lightweight wheelchair, these aids can significantly reduce the physical demands of care.
For any more information regarding our products or services, don’t hesitate to contact us.