The number of unpaid carers
in the UK, who shoulder the responsibility of looking after a frail,
ill or disabled friend or relative, stands at 6.5 million, and is set to
rocket in the next couple of decades, according to figures from Carers
UK.
"We estimate that it will hit 9 million by 2037 as a result of
our ageing population, and the fact that people are living longer with
disabilities and long-term health conditions," says Steve McIntosh,
policy manager for Carers UK. "More and more of us will need help and
advice to cope with the pressures caring puts on our careers and on family finances."
The
number of carers providing free support has already climbed by 600,000,
or around 11%, in the past decade. This hidden army, which saves the
nation a staggering £119bn each year, is the focus of Carers Week,
starting on 10 June, which is a partnership of nine charities aimed at
increasing awareness of the emotional, physical and financial impact of
taking on this role.
Full Article on Guardian Money
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