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: Universal Credit and Personal Independence Payment Bill is laid in Parliament
Carers UK is deeply concerned to see the Government pressing ahead with welfare reform plans which will see 150,000 people…

Carers UK congratulates Professor Sue Yeandle on recognition in King's Birthday Honours
Carers UK has worked with Professor Sue Yeandle for nearly 20 years and we are delighted to see that she…

Reflections on Carers Week – a message from our Chair
Carers UK Chair Nick Baird shares a message to mark the end of Carers Week.

Mental health and wellbeing for unpaid carers
Head of Carer Support, Michael Shann, has shared a message about supporting carers' mental health and wellbeing.
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.