The stark financial implications of unpaid caring for a loved one over time have been revealed in new research
Long term carers are having to cut back on food and heating just to get by.
The stark financial implications of unpaid caring for a loved one over time have been revealed in new research.
A study by Carers Scotland shows that that just 44% of those caring for more than 15 years could afford their bills without struggling, compared with 62% of carers in their first year.
They are also much more likely to be in debt.
Figures, released by the charity on Carers Rights Day (Friday, 30 November), shows that the number of carers in debt because of caring increases from 12% of people caring for a year or less to 19% of those caring between five and nine years.
The proportion rises steeply to 25% of those who have been caring for over 15 years.
Hardship experienced by carers is intensified over time with their financial resilience diminishing the longer their caring role continues.
Carers looking after someone for more than ten years are having to make tougher financial decisions about cutting back on spending, borrowing money or using savings to manage.
Of carers struggling financially, 42% caring for between one and four years are cutting back on essentials such as food and heating, rising to 50% of those who have been caring for over 15 years.
Simon Hodgson, director of Carers Scotland, said: “We know that caring unpaid for a loved one has significant financial implications for many people, with two million saying they’ve given up work to care at some point, with many relying on their savings and the social security system.
“Our research shows that financial hardship worsens for carers the longer they’re caring and underlines the real need for them to have the right support and information about their rights early on, so they can best support themselves in the long-run. Carers who wish to continue or return to work should have the support to do so.
“It’s easy to miss out on the financial support available and we are urging local councils, the NHS and employers to maximise early help for carers by making policies and rights to financial support clear and accessible.”
This year, under the theme of Caring for Your Future, Carers Scotland is sharing financial information and advice to support carers to prepare for the future.
It has launched a new planning tool for carers, which can be accessed here.
