Ten things you did (not) know about carers

 1. There are almost six million carers in the UK. In our region-Yorkshire & Humberside there are 518,211 Carers. 

2. One in eight adults in the UK is a Carer.  

3. 3 million people juggle work with caring responsibilities for a disabled, ill or frail relative or friend.  

4. The main Carers’ benefit – Carers Allowance - is £50.55 for a minimum of 35 hours, equivalent to £1.34 per hour. 

5. People providing high levels of care are twice as likely to be permanently sick or disabled. 

6. Every year 2 million people take on new caring responsibilities.  

7. 1.25 million people care for more than 50 hours a week.  

8. 58% of Carers are women, 42% are men. 

9. 1.5 million Carers are over the age of 60.  

10. Carers’ unpaid contribution is £87 billion each year, yet the decision to care can mean a commitment to future poverty. Many give up an income, future employment prospects and pension rights to become a Carer.

Page updated on : 19/03/2009