More Support and Recognition Needed for One-million Unpaid Carers in England and Wales

Recent figures enabled by the Office for National statistics has pointed out that more than one million people spend above 50 hours a week caring for family or loved ones, at no cost and most of the carers are women. This should be a signal to offer more support and recognition for such women who care for elderly people.

According to The ONS, nearly 5.8 million people in England and Wales, translating into one out of 10 people are taking care of loved ones. Most of the unpaid carers are women, and figure show that nearly 1.4 million of them are caring for the elderly more than 50 hours a week.

"But unpaid care is still not given the recognition it deserves from either Government or employers. Far too many women are forced to trade down or even quit jobs when they take on caring responsibilities. Not enough employers truly embrace flexible working, despite the benefits it holds for staff and the business,” said Frances O’Grady, the general secretary of the TUC, said.

Helena Herklots, Chief executive of Carers UK, reiterated that it is time the government begins to look at caring more for the elderly. “We need Government investment in all services, from childcare to elderly care. Without this extra funding we will continue to see women drop out of the labor market to fill the gaps in care provision," she said.



Source-Medindia