Our letter to the PM

The Right Honourable Keir Starmer
10 Downing Street
London
SW1A 2AA



Dear Prime Minister

We write to you today on behalf of the millions of unpaid carers across our nation who tirelessly dedicate their lives to looking after loved ones. These individuals, often overlooked and underappreciated, form the backbone of our social care system, providing essential care and support to family members, friends, and neighbours in need. The contributions of unpaid carers are invaluable, yet they often face significant financial, emotional, and physical challenges with little to no support.

As we’re sure you are aware, unpaid carers save the UK economy billions of pounds annually by providing care that would otherwise fall to our overburdened healthcare system. Despite their critical role, many carers struggle with financial hardship, social isolation, and health issues due to the demands of their caregiving responsibilities. It’s imperative that we recognise their sacrifices and provide them with the support they need and deserve.

To address these challenges, we urge the UK government to consider several measures aimed at improving the lives of unpaid carers. Firstly, increasing the Carer's Allowance is essential. The current allowance is insufficient to meet the cost of living, let alone the additional expenses that caring often entails. Raising this allowance would help alleviate the financial burden faced by carers, allowing them to better support themselves and their families.

Employment rights and flexibility are equally important. Mandating flexible working arrangements would allow carers to balance their work and caregiving responsibilities more effectively, reducing stress and preventing burnout. Introducing statutory paid leave for carers, akin to parental leave, would provide essential time off for carers to manage their responsibilities without sacrificing their income.

Health and well-being support for carers is crucial. Carers often experience high levels of stress and emotional exhaustion. Providing free and easily accessible mental health services tailored for carers would support their well-being. Expanding respite care services would offer carers regular breaks, helping them maintain their health and well-being and continue providing high-quality care.

Training and education for carers can make a significant difference. Offering free training programs would equip carers with the skills and knowledge needed to provide effective care, boosting their confidence and competence. Providing grants for carers to pursue further education or training would enhance their career prospects and caregiving skills, benefiting both the carers and those they support.

Legal and social support should not be overlooked. Ensuring carers have access to free legal advice and support would help them navigate the complexities of their rights and entitlements. Establishing advocacy services would assist carers in navigating health, social care, and legal systems, ensuring they receive the support they need.

Housing and infrastructure improvements are also necessary. Providing grants or loans for home adaptations would make living spaces safer and more accessible for those being cared for, improving their quality of life. Ensuring public transport systems are fully accessible and affordable for carers and those they care for would facilitate better mobility and independence.

Finally, policy and awareness efforts must be strengthened. Developing and implementing policies that recognise and support the role of unpaid carers across all sectors would create a more inclusive and supportive environment for carers. Launching campaigns to raise public awareness of the contributions and challenges faced by unpaid carers would foster a more understanding and supportive society.

We passionately believe that the measures outlined above represent a comprehensive approach to supporting unpaid carers, recognising their immense contributions, and addressing the many challenges they face. Implementing these measures would not only improve the lives of carers but also enhance the quality of care provided to countless individuals across the UK.

Unpaid carers deserve our recognition, appreciation, and, most importantly, our support. By implementing these measures, the UK government can make a meaningful difference in the lives of carers and those they care for, ensuring a more just and compassionate society. We urge you to consider these proposals and take action to support the millions of unpaid carers who give so much of themselves to care for others. Their dedication and sacrifice are the epitome of selflessness and compassion, and it is our duty to ensure they receive the support they need and deserve.

Thank you for your attention to this important matter. We look forward to your response.

Yours sincerely

Carers Card UK
(On behalf of unpaid carers across the UK)