New research from Carers UK shows two thirds of UK adults can expect to care unpaid for a loved one in their lifetime

Carers UK have released new research looking at the likelihood people have of being a carer in adult life.

Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said:

“Many of us don’t expect to become an unpaid carer but the reality is two in three of us will do it in our lifetimes.

“Our research shows women are disproportionately affected, facing difficult decisions about their loved ones’ health, family finances and how best to combine paid work and care more than a decade earlier than men.

“The next government has to make sure this ‘gender care gap’ is addressed by giving carers a right of five to ten days of paid care leave. It must also prioritise sustainable, long term investment in our social care system so that millions of people caring for loved ones can stay in work and look after their own health.”

The report is called: “Will I care? The likelihood of being a carer in adult life” and can be accessed here: http://www.carersuk.org

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