Today, the Chair of the Casey Commission, Baroness Casey of Blackstock, spoke at Carers UK's State of Caring Conference, sharing what the Independent Commission has heard from unpaid carers across England, including the emotional, practical and financial pressures many people face while supporting loved ones. 

Helen Walker, Chief Executive at Carers UK, said: 

“Social care is a defining challenge of our time, with profound consequences for millions of lives. Rising demand, combined with stretched resources, is placing ever-greater pressure on unpaid carers, many of whom are providing increasing levels of care, often at significant cost to their own health and wellbeing.

“Baroness Casey is right to highlight the heavy strain on carers navigating the health and social care system. While many people are willing and committed to caring for family and friends, too often, they are not properly supported to do so. Carers frequently attribute their poor mental or physical health to a lack of support from services, rather than the caring role itself, with administrative demands being a major issue – 38% of carers say claiming financial benefits, as well as arranging and manging paid care is the main reason they feel overwhelmed.

“Our Tipping Point report shows that access to affordable, good-quality social care is crucial in enabling unpaid carers to remain in employment or avoid reducing their hours. Without it, many are forced to scale back work or leave jobs altogether to meet caring responsibilities. This affects their financial security and future circumstances.

“We welcome Baroness Casey’s strong focus on this pressing issue and are encouraged by the clear and supportive speech she has delivered. We are honoured that she chose our State of Caring Conference to share this message on unpaid care. We would also like to thank Kate Dearden MP, Minister for Employment Rights and Consumer Protection, for taking the time to visit today.”