đź’· Carers Week 2025: Unpaid Carers and the Hidden Financial Strain
As Carers Week 2025 draws closer, today’s spotlight is on a rarely discussed but deeply impactful issue: the financial cost of caring. Across the UK, unpaid carers are saving the economy billions, yet many struggle to make ends meet. At Caremark Barking, Dagenham and Newham, we believe this inequality must be addressed — starting with awareness.
đź’¸ The True Cost of Care
Unpaid carers often make difficult sacrifices to fulfil their roles, including:
- Giving up work or reducing hours, leading to reduced income
- Using personal savings to cover extra care-related expenses
- Paying out of pocket for things like transport, medication, and home adjustments
According to Carers UK, over 50% of carers are worried about managing household finances — and many cut back on essentials like food and heating.
🔗 Read more about the financial impact on carers – Carers UK
🧾 What Support Is Available?
Despite the financial strain, many carers don’t know what they’re entitled to or struggle to access it. If you’re an unpaid carer, you may be eligible for:
- Carer’s Allowance
- Council Tax reduction
- Free health checks and flu jabs
- Help with utility bills and travel costs
Locally, carers in our boroughs can seek advice and benefits support from:
We encourage all carers to get a carer’s assessment through their local authority — it’s free and helps you access the support you deserve.
📣 Carers Week 2025: Let’s Push for Change
This Carers Week 2025, we’re urging policymakers and the public to:
- Acknowledge the economic value of unpaid care
- Provide better financial support and protection
- Ensure carers are not penalised for stepping up to care for loved ones
At Caremark Barking, Dagenham and Newham, we regularly signpost family carers to local support services and champion their inclusion in care planning decisions. We see the silent contributions of carers every day — and we stand with them.
đź“Ť Join the Movement
As part of our Carers Week 2025 campaign, we’ll continue to share information, stories and resources all week long. You can also explore our previous articles and community partnerships here:
đź”— Visit our Local News Section
No carer should have to pay the price for compassion.
It’s time to fight for fairness.
And above all, let’s support carers — not just in words, but in action.
#CarersWeek2025 #UnpaidCarers #CaringAboutEquality #CaremarkBarkingandDagenham