We’re here to make life better for the 5.8 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
Carers UK response to the ADASS annual survey
This latest report reveals that most Directors of social services have seen an increase in unpaid carers approaching them for…
Government to set out timetable for Carer’s Leave review and commits to hold public consultation
Last night, as the Employment Rights Bill was debated at Report Stage in the House of Lords, Peers discussed an…
Carers UK reaction to third reading of the Universal Credit Bill
MPs debated the Universal Credit Bill in the house of Commons on 9th July 2025. The Bill in its existing…
The GP Patient Survey 2025: A widening health gap for unpaid carers
This year’s GP Patient Survey reflects a worrying trend for unpaid carers’ health. 72% of carers said that they have…
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.