As the cost-of-living crisis worsens in the UK, those looking after a family member or friend have been amongst the hardest hit.
Lighten the Load aims to raise awareness of the financial support available to carers and increase the number accessing that support.
The campaign is a response to a survey conducted by Carers First which found that more than nine out of ten carers are worried about the cost of living.
The survey also revealed that nine in ten of carers are losing sleep because they are worrying about how to afford the basic essentials, and more than half are already in debt, or will be soon, owing to their caring responsibilities. A third are going without food on a regular basis.
Charlotte has been caring for her mum, Kayla who has a respiratory condition, since she was 15 when her caring duties meant that she was at home more than in school. Now 21, Charlotte is unable to hold down a job because of her caring responsibilities.
Charlotte and her mum often can’t afford the basic essentials and are fearful about winter. She says:
“I’m already skipping meals and sitting in the dark; how am I going to cope this winter?”
We are hearing of more stories like Charlotte’s from other carers, but many are unaware help is available.
Alison Taylor, Chief Executive at Carers First said:
“Many carers are under great financial pressures with soaring energy, food and housing costs; and this is negatively impacting on their physical and mental health. We want to make sure carers, like Charlotte get the support they need to make ends meet this winter.”
We surveyed over 1,000 unpaid carers in August to find out how the rising cost of living was affecting their lives. The survey found that:
- Nine in ten of carers (93%) are worried about the rising cost of living.
- 93% are losing sleep because they are worrying about how to afford the basic essentials.
- Over half (52%) of carers are already in debt, or will be soon, owing to their caring responsibilities.
- One in five (21%) carers not accessing financial support didn’t realise that help was available to them.
- A third of carers have already significantly changed their food shopping habits, and many are already going without food on a regular basis.
- 33% of carers are not going out in a bid to save money, leaving them even more lonely and isolated.
- 15% of carers are now experiencing severe mental health and depression.
How we can help
Our dedicated campaign page has further information, tools and resources to help carers maximise their income and make their money go further. Carers can sign up to a free email series ‘Financial Support in Five Steps’ which breaks down information about financial support into simple, straightforward guidance. This includes claiming benefits, grants, discounts, help with paying household bills and budgeting.
We are also promoting support available from partners including Discounts for Carers, the Legal and General Care Concierge service and Anglian Water.
Online Help and Advice
Visit our online support section where we have provided advice and guidance on a range of relevant topics to help you in your caring role.