Our campaigns

Our campaigns are based on what carers tell us they need to improve their lives. Carers tell us about the anger and frustration they feel at the constant battles to get even the bare minimum of help.This is what drives Carers UK. There are three main areas where we concentrate our campaigning.

1. End poverty for carers

A radical transformation of carer benefits and other financial support

The problem

Caring can have a devastating impact on carers’ finances. One in five carers is forced to give up work, losing on average £11,000 in income. Carers are being short changed by an outdated benefits system that doesn’t recognise their contribution to society. The main benefit for carers - Carer's Allowance - is just £53 a week – the lowest of its kind. Unfair rules act as a disincentive for carers who are able to work, while some, including those over 65 or sick, miss out on carers’ benefits altogether.

The government has promised a review of carer benefits, but no action has taken place.

What we want

Carers UK is calling on the Government to radically reform the tax and benefit system so that it is

• Based on the contribution carers make, rather than on the work/income they have to give up.
• Transparent and fair to all carers.
• Easy to access and unbureaucratic.

2. Back up and support so carers don't struggle alone

Back up for carers

The problem

The social care system is in crisis and severely underfunded. This has devastating consequences for disabled people and a knock on effect for carers who have no option but to fill the gap. Many carers are outside the social care system and get no help whatsoever. Many face a constant battle for the most meagre of services. Carers pay a price with their health, income and careers.

The public’s expectations of what the state will provide should a person require care are widely different from the harsh reality.

What we want

Carers UK is calling on Government to radically overhaul and invest in the health and social care system. We want a care system which is funded through a clear, simple and sustainable deal, entered into by the state, community, family and individuals.

A social care system should

• Be easy to understand, access and use.
• Enable people to assess their own needs and to choose the right support.
• Reach more people, earlier.
• Deliver quality and reliable services for the person being looked after which will improve their independence and that of their carer.
• Design health and social care services around the time and availability of carers, including their working lives.

3. Making paid work and caring compatible

Removal of the barriers facing carers who want to work

The problem

1 in 3 carers are unable to return to work because the right alternative care is not available. 1 in 5 carers are forced to give up work because of their caring responsibilities and can end up isolated and living in poverty. Carers are being discriminated against in the workplace due to their caring role.

What we want

Carers UK is calling on the Government to introduce changes to health and social care services and the tax, benefit and pension system that help carers return to and stay in work. We also want employers to implement flexible working.