Campaigning for change

Our campaigns are based on what carers tell us they need to improve their lives. Carers tell us about the anger and frustration they feel at the constant battles to get even the bare minimum of help.This is what drives Carers UK. 

Real change not short change

A radical transformation of carer benefits and other financial support

The problem

Caring can have a devastating impact on carers’ finances. One in five carers is forced to give up work, losing on average £11,000 in income. Carers are being short changed by an outdated benefits system that doesn’t recognise their contribution to society. The main benefit for carers - Carer's Allowance - is just £50 a week – the lowest of its kind. Unfair rules act as a disincentive for carers who are able to work, while some, including those over 65 or sick, miss out on carers’ benefits altogether.

What we want

Carers UK’s Real change not short change campaign is calling on the Government to radically reform the tax and benefit system so that it is

• Based on the contribution carers make, rather than on the work/income they have to give up.
• Transparent and fair to all carers.
• Easy to access and unbureaucratic.

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Back Me Up

Back up for carers

The problem

Without the right support caring can seriously damage your health. 625,000 carers suffer mental and physical ill health as a direct consequence of the stress and physical demands of caring. Many carers say they feel ignored and invisible and have to constantly battle for the most meagre of services.  The social care system is seriously underfunded and in crisis. This has devastating consequences for disabled people and a knock on effect for carers who have no option but to fill the gap. Many carers are outside the social care system and get no help whatsoever. The public’s expectations of what the state will provide should a person require care are widely different from the harsh reality.

What we want

Carers UK's Back Me Up campaign is calling on Government to radically overhaul and invest in the health and social care system. We want a care system which is funded through a clear, simple and sustainable deal, entered into by the state, community, family and individuals.

A social care system should

• Be easy to understand, access and use.
• Enable people to assess their own needs and to choose the right support.
• Reach more people, earlier.
• Deliver quality and reliable services for the person being looked after which will improve their independence and that of their carer.
• Design health and social care services around the time and availability of carers, including their working lives.

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Make WORK work

Removal of the barriers facing carers who want to work

The problem

1 in 3 carers are not able to return to work because the right alternative care is not available. 1 in 5 carers are forced to give up work because of their caring responsibilities and can end up isolated and living in poverty. Carers are being discriminated against in the workplace due to their caring role. Carers are offered little help when they are in a position to go back to work. They face barriers when they try to improve their skills through training and education.

What we want

Carers UK's make WORK work campaign is calling on the Government to introduce changes to health and social care services and the tax, benefit and pension system that help carers return to and stay in work. We also want employers to implement flexible working.

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