The Government has published the terms of reference for Baroness Casey of Blackstock's independent commission into adult social care.
Emily Holzhausen CBE, Director of Policy and Public Affairs at Carers UK, said:
"We're pleased that unpaid carers have been part of Baroness Louise Casey's first conversations at the start of her independent review, sharing their knowledge and expertise of years of providing unpaid care. Adult social care relies heavily on the support provided by unpaid carers. It is positive to see that the review aims to give carers greater power to have their expertise heard and recognised within the system, and we look forward to being part of future discussions.
"The need for change has become urgent because unpaid carers are under huge pressure - more than ever before. The increasing support they provide, now worth £184 billion to the UK economy, comes at a cost - impacting their health, wellbeing, finances and employment opportunities. Nearly two thirds of carers feel they have no choice in providing care because there are no other care alternatives available.
"There is an economic side to this work that needs to be considered. Nearly 600 people give up work every day to provide unpaid care. Employers are losing valuable skills and talent from the labour market, impacting on productivity. Social care can play a vital role for people to stay in employment and remain well at work.
"The timescale set out by the Government for the independent review is a long one, especially when we've waited so long for fundamental reform. The second phase reports in 2028 and a 10-year plan starts in 2026 at least with phased, pragmatic deliverables. With this in mind, it is critical that we see quick and decisive action within the first phase addressing key issues faced by social care, including better support for unpaid carers and the workforce which families rely on to provide essential services.
"For the outcome of the review to be effective, we must see robust cross-Government action to support unpaid carers as well as investment in social care in the forthcoming Treasury spending review, to prevent further cuts to support which families so desperately need."