Results of the GP Patient Survey 2025 released today show that the health of unpaid carers has worsened. The GP Patient Survey (GPPS) is an England-wide survey of patients aged 16 and above, with this year’s statistics based on the responses of 702,837 completed surveys.

Helen Walker, Chief Executive at Carers UK, said:

“This year’s GP Patient Survey reflects a worrying trend for unpaid carers’ health. 72% of carers said that they have a physical or mental health condition or illness expected to last 12 months or more – an increase from 70% in 2024.

“There is a growing health gap between carers and non-carers, 61% of whom say they have a long-term condition or illness. These results reflect our own research which shows that the pressures of caring often take their toll, impacting on unpaid carers’ ability to prioritise their own health needs.

“More than half (57%) of people responding to our latest State of Caring Survey say they feel overwhelmed ‘often’ or ‘always’. Over a third (35%) say they have ‘bad’ or ‘very bad’ mental health, compared to 27% in the previous year’s survey. 

“Now is the time to get serious about caring for our carers. Changes in the NHS 10-year plan can’t come soon enough as far too many carers are overwhelmed and at risk of burnout. Challenges with underfunding in social care are also impacting on peoples’ ability to take a break and recharge their batteries.

“Over half (55%) of unpaid carers looking after a family member or friend take a year or more to realise they are caring. We must see systematic and routine identification of unpaid carers by healthcare professionals and targeted support to deliver practical and emotional help.”