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15 May 2008

Carers face daily struggle between working and caring

New survey shows nearly half of those caring for an older relative or dependent agree that it is not possible to combine being a carer with a career

Right care Right deal, the national campaign launched to build public awareness and support for the need for brave and innovative solutions for the social care system, have today responded to the results of a survey from YouGov, commissioned by HR Magazine which found that nearly half of those caring for an older relative or dependent agree that it is not possible to combine being a carer with a career. *

Imelda Redmond, Chief Executive of Carers UK and spokesperson for the Right care Righ deal campaign said:

"There are three million people juggling caring with paid work in the UK and this survey provides yet more evidence of the daily struggle they face.
"Having to give up work can leave carers isolated and forced to survive on very low levels of benefit. Employers face the prospect of losing valuable staff at a time of skills shortages.

"With unpaid care in the UK now valued at £87 billion per year, it's more important than ever that the forthcoming Green Paper on adult social care supports families and carers as an integral part of the social care system. Carers already have the right to request flexible working from their employer, but they also need care services which back them up.

"The Right care Right deal campaign wants a future where people can live their lives, their way; supported by a care system which is funded through a clear, simple and sustainable deal, entered into by the state, community, family and individuals.

Notes to Editor:
* A YouGov survey commissioned by HR magazine of 2,850 adults found that nearly half of those who care for older dependants want some form of flexible working to enable them to continue in employment rather than having to give up work. The survey also found that nearly half of those caring for an older relative or dependent agree that it is not possible to combine being a carer with a career . More information can be found at www.hrmagazine.co.uk

‘Right care, Right deal’ is the new national campaign launched to build public awareness and support for the need for brave and innovative solutions for the social care system. With the Government indicating that social care is an urgent political priority, and in advance of the expected green paper later in 2008, the campaign combines three of the UK’s largest charities working with and for older people and their families and carers, and will urge the government to renew its vision for the future of social care in England.

To show your support for the campaign and receive regular updates on how you can get involved, sign up at www.rightcare.org.uk or call 0207 239 1984.

Further information on the campaign is available at www.rightcare.org.uk