We’re here to make life better for the 5.7 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
New Report Highlights Urgent Need to Address Poverty Among Unpaid Carers in Wales / Adroddiad Newydd Yn Amlygu Angen Brys i Fynd i'r Afael â Thlodi Ymysg Gofalwyr Di-dâl yng Nghymru
1.2 million unpaid carers across the UK are living in poverty, with 1 in 10 of all carers in deep poverty
28% unpaid carers across Scotland are living in poverty, with 1 in 12 in deep poverty
Press Release for Poverty and financial hardship of unpaid carers in Scotland report 2024.
Carers UK responds to Lord Ara Darzi's independent investigation into the state of the NHS
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.