Information for Adult Carers
Millions of adults across the UK dedicate themselves to caring for loved ones. This incredible act of support, can come with a heavy burden. It can significantly impact your health, wellbeing, relationships, employment and even your ability to socialise.
Who are Adult Carers?
Over 5 million adults in the UK care for a friend or family member who needs help due to illness, disability, mental health issues, or addiction. This unpaid support is vital, and saves the UK economy an estimated £132 billion per year – approximately £19,336 per carer.
Each carer’s experience is unique to their own circumstances.
Meet the Carers
- Gender balance: 58% of carers are women and 42% are men.
- Juggling responsibilities: Over 3 million carers balance caring with employment.
- The demands of caring: Sadly, 1 in 5 carers are forced to give up work due to caring demands.
- Impact on health: Due to stress and physical demands, 625,000 carers experience mental and physical health problems.
- Long hours: More than 3 million carers provide over 50 hours of care per week.
Statistics provided by our parent organisation, Carers Trust UK.
Older Carers
Older carers make up a large portion of adult carers in the UK. With age, the duties of a carer inevitably become more difficult as time goes on.
- Significant numbers: 1 in 5 people aged 50-64 are carers in the UK.
- Double the burden: 65% of older carers (aged 60-94) themselves have long-term health problems or disabilities.
- Mental health impact: Nearly 70% of older carers report a negative impact on their mental health.
- Sacrifices made: One-third have cancelled treatment or surgery for themselves due to caring responsibilities.
- A rapidly growing group: Over 1 million carers are over 65, and this number is expected to double in the next 20 years.
- Heavy time commitment: Most carers over 70 provide over 60 hours of care a week.
How caring affects you, and how we can help
Being an adult carer comes with a variety of challenges, and juggling the demands of caring can take a toll on many aspects of life. At Carers Trust Tyne & Wear, we offer support and advice for dealing with your health and general well-being, social connections, and even your education or career.
Health & wellbeing
Caring can be physically and emotionally demanding. We offer resources on managing stress, maintaining health, and supporting your mental wellbeing.
Social connection
Caring can be isolating, making it difficult to leave the house and socialise. Explore Carers Trust resources on getting a break and maintaining social connections.
Let’s talk about how we can help and support you in caring.
We’re here to help – just get in touch.