Think Tank Calls for Enhanced DWP Support for Britain's "Unsung Army" of Carers
The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) is facing renewed pressure to improve support for the 1.4 million people currently claiming Carer's Allowance across the United Kingdom. A comprehensive new report from the Resolution Foundation think tank has highlighted the significant challenges faced by this group, particularly the one million individuals who provide unpaid care equivalent to a full-time job.
The Growing Burden of Unpaid Care Work
The research reveals a striking disparity in how caring responsibilities affect different socioeconomic groups. The Resolution Foundation found that nearly one in three working-age adults from lower-income families lives with a disability, compared to fewer than one in five in more affluent households. This inequality creates a compounding effect on financial stability and employment prospects.
In households of modest means, approximately one million people dedicate 35 hours or more each week to caring responsibilities – the equivalent of a standard full-time position. This substantial time commitment makes securing paid employment particularly challenging, creating a cycle of financial strain for those providing essential care to loved ones.
Understanding Carer's Allowance
Carer's Allowance serves as the primary welfare benefit designed to support those providing regular care. Many people who qualify don't immediately identify as carers, but the definition encompasses anyone who supports a partner, friend, or relative who would struggle to manage independently.
- You don't need to be related to the person you care for to make a claim
- The current weekly rate stands at £83.30
- No additional payment is provided for caring for multiple people
- The amount received may vary depending on other benefits being claimed
The latest statistics show a significant increase in claimants, with 1.4 million people receiving Carer's Allowance in August 2024 – representing a 5% rise from the previous year.
Political Response and Policy Considerations
Mike Brewer, Deputy Chief Executive of the Resolution Foundation, emphasised the broader societal implications of these findings. "Britain is getting older and sicker, while a greater share of its population has a disability," he noted. "While these trends affect the whole of society, they are starkest in the poorest half of working-age families across the country."
Brewer highlighted the political oversight regarding unpaid care demands, stating: "While we talk a lot about the effects of ageing and ill-health, the implications on demand for unpaid care is largely absent from political debate. That's despite Britain having an 'unsung army' of 1 million people who do at least 35 hours of unpaid care work every week – equivalent to a full-time job."
He called for substantive policy changes, arguing: "It is time to provide better support for these carers and their families, just as we have done with working parents in recent decades."
Government Position on Carer Support
In response to these concerns, a Labour Party government spokesperson acknowledged the vital role carers play in society. "We understand the huge difference carers make, as well as the struggles they may face," the spokesperson stated.
The government pointed to recent policy developments, including what they describe as "the biggest ever cash increase in the earnings threshold for carer's allowance." They also highlighted additional support mechanisms available through the Better Care Fund, which provides services such as short breaks and respite care for unpaid carers.
Looking forward, the spokesperson confirmed: "Alongside this, we are reviewing the implementation of carer's leave and considering the benefits of introducing paid carer's leave." This suggests potential future policy developments that could significantly impact the working lives of those balancing employment with substantial caring responsibilities.
