Three million carers struggling to care - and hold down a job

15/05/2008

A new survey shows nearly half of those caring for an older relative or dependent agree that it is not possible to combine being a carer with a career.

Right care Right deal, the national campaign launched to build public awareness and support for the need for brave and innovative solutions for the social care system, have responded to the results of a survey from YouGov, commissioned by HR Magazine which found that nearly half of those caring for an older relative or dependent agree that it is not possible to combine being a carer with a career.

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK and spokesperson for the Right care Right deal campaign said: "There are three million people juggling caring with paid work in the UK and this survey provides yet more evidence of the daily struggle they face.

"Having to give up work can leave carers isolated and forced to survive on very low levels of benefit. Employers face the prospect of losing valuable staff at a time of skills shortages.

"With unpaid care in the UK now valued at £87 billion per year, it's more important than ever that the forthcoming Green Paper on adult social care supports families and carers as an integral part of the social care system. Carers already have the right to request flexible working from their employer, but they also need care services which back them up.

"The Right care Right deal campaign wants a future where people can live their lives, their way; supported by a care system which is funded through a clear, simple and sustainable deal, entered into by the state, community, family and individuals."