We’re here to make life better for the 5.8 million carers across the UK.
Who is a carer?
A carer is a person of any age who provides unpaid care and support to a family member, friend or neighbour who is disabled, has an illness or long-term condition, or who needs extra help as they grow older.
Why caring matters
Carers are holding families together, enabling those they care for to get the most out of life, making an enormous contribution to society and saving the economy billions of pounds.
Yet many are stretched to the limit – juggling care with work and family life, struggling to make ends meet and often battling with poor health themselves.
You don’t have to care alone
Looking after someone can be a rewarding experience. It can also be tough, lonely and bewildering. But you’re not on your own. Carers UK is here to listen, to give you expert information and guidance, to champion your rights and support you in finding new ways to manage at home, at work, or wherever you are.
Latest updates
Carers Scotland 60th Anniversary Reception and Exhibition
Government confirms benefit increases for 2026-27, including rise in Carer’s Allowance and earnings threshold
Autumn budget reaction from Carers UK
Unprecedented changes for carers as Government responds to Carer’s Allowance overpayments review recommendations
Got a question about caring?
Every day we hear from people who need help with looking after a friend or family member
Become a member for free
Joining Carers UK is free and takes just a few minutes.