Are you struggling to look after a loved one?

An alarming interview with Helen Walker, Chief Executive of the charity Carers UK, was recently broadcast on BBC Breakfast. I was staggered to learn that over 600 people a day leave their jobs because of the demands of being a carer. This means that people can go from a well-paid job to living off ‘Carers Allowance’ and benefits.

The pressures of looking after the elderly, ill or disabled relatives have made almost half a million people quit their jobs in the past two years. Apparently, 15% of the working population is “now working and caring” which is having a significant impact on the individual, let alone the workforce.

Are you a member of ‘The Sandwich Generation’?

The report estimates that almost 5 million people are trying to balance looking after their relatives, their children as well as working. Those aged between 45 to 64, are most likely to have a caring responsibility. These mid-life “sandwich carers”, often feel ignored and undervalued.

According to the Office of National Statistics:

• 1 in 7 of the UK workforce are caring for a loved one
• 6 million have had to quit their job in order to care for a relative
• More than a ¼ of these carers are suffering from stress and depression

Respite Care

There needs to be more affordable care and support in the community and the ability to work more flexible hours. As always, care for the elderly cannot be free for everyone and if you have a relative who needs help, who wouldn’t jump in to help regardless of one’s own personal situation? This is not good for anyone. One’s family are precious and should not be a burden. For more information, see here.

Here at Bunbury, we do our utmost to help. Our care costs are as reasonable as possible. Help is available for just an hour a day or living in, giving you a much-needed break.

‘Charity of the Month’

Carers UK

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