Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK said:  

“This latest report reveals that most Directors of social services have seen an increase in unpaid carers approaching them for support this year due to burn-out and a lack of support from health services. 

“As services continue to be stripped back to the bare minimum for any but the most complex needs, it's no wonder that unpaid family carers, on whom the system relies so heavily, are on the brink of collapse themselves. Many are providing more intense care than ever.  

“This latest ADASS survey echoes our own research showing that an increasing number of people looking after a disabled, older or ill relatives are experiencing poor mental health because of their roles. 65% said they feel overwhelmed because they have not had a break.  

“It is simply unacceptable that unpaid carers continue to bear the brunt of this crisis, finding themselves pushed to breaking point often to the detriment of their own health.  

“This report sends a strong message to the Government that as part of the delivery of the 10-year NHS Plan, carers’ health and support needs must be firmly at its heart if it is to succeed.  The move towards more community and home-based care is something that most carers are in favour of, but worry about having to provide more care, with a significant and growing minority already providing very significant levels and sometimes round-the-clock care, being even more concerned.”