Most unpaid carers say Carer’s Allowance is not enough to cover lost income – Just Group

Research from Just Group found only 12% of unpaid carers aged 45 to 75 are claiming Carer’s Allowance. 

A third of carers have never heard of the benefit or do not know what it is. 

Among carers supporting an elderly relative, only 21% said Carer’s Allowance is enough to replace income lost from giving up work, while 30% felt it provides adequate recognition for their role. 

Among carers who claim Carer’s Allowance, only 28% think it provides enough income to give up work without a financial struggle. 

Less than a third said Carer’s Allowance is adequate financial recognition for their caring responsibilities. 

Emma Walker, director at Just Group, said: “Providing care is a significant commitment that often comes with real financial consequences – but the financial support available is very limited. 

“It underlines the difficult trade-offs many people have to make when balancing caring responsibilities and their own financial security.”

Data also showed that one in 10 unpaid carers have never heard of Carer’s Allowance and a further 22% are aware but do not know what it is. 

Among those who know about it, six in 10 said claiming the benefit is complicated. 

Walker added: “Our research highlights a clear need to improve understanding of Carer’s Allowance given that nearly a third of unpaid carers are either unaware of the benefit or unsure of what it is.

“Getting to grips with the benefits system can feel daunting but people who are providing significant levels of care, especially those who may be facing financial pressures, should check to see what additional help is available to them.

“There are a wide range of free-to-use resources provided by the government, charities and other organisations that can help individuals identify their eligibility for different benefits and support them through the application process.”