There’s been a spotlight on carers this year, with the Carers Week 2026 report, Building Carer Friendly Communities. The findings are both eye-opening and a reminder of just how vital carers are to our society.
A Hidden Workforce
Did you know that almost half of the UK’s adult population (around 24.8 million people) have provided unpaid care at some point? Even more striking, 11.6 million people are currently carers—supporting loved ones day in and day out.
This highlights something often overlooked: unpaid carers are not a small group. They are a huge and essential part of our communities.
Are Communities Doing Enough?
Unfortunately, many carers feel invisible.
- 44% of current carers (around 5 million people) don’t feel understood or valued
- 39% of former carers feel the same
- That’s around 10 million people who feel underappreciated
On top of that, caring responsibilities can limit everyday life:
- 23% have missed out on community activities
- 20% struggle to maintain a healthy lifestyle
- Those providing 50+ hours of care weekly face even greater challenges
These figures show how caring can impact not just individuals—but their connection to the wider community.
What does a Carer-Friendly Community Look Like?
The good news? Small, practical changes can make a big difference. Carer-friendly communities include:
- Flexible working arrangements
- Easier access to healthcare appointments
- Clear information about support services
- Staff training in public-facing roles to understand carers’ needs
It’s about making everyday life more manageable—and helping carers feel seen and valued.
Inspiring Examples
Some organisations are already leading the way:
- Specsavers offers home visits for both carers, and the people they care for, making eye care more accessible
- TSB provides up to 70 hours of paid carer’s leave and a “carer’s passport” to simplify workplace support
- Lincolnshire Partnership NHS Foundation Trust has a Carers Council, ensuring carers’ voices are heard in care planning
- London School of Economics (LSE) offers contextual admissions, financial support, and academic flexibility for student carers
These initiatives show what’s possible when organisations take carers seriously.
What Can Employers Do?
Workplaces play a huge role in supporting carers. Some key steps include:
- Offering at least five days of paid Carer’s Leave
- Raising awareness of rights under the Carer’s Leave Act
- Joining networks like Employers for Carers
- Training managers to better support employees balancing work and care
Supporting carers isn’t just the right thing to do—it helps employees stay, grow, and thrive.
Final Thoughts
Carers are at the heart of our communities—but too often, they feel overlooked. The Carers Week 2026 report is a strong call to action for government, organisations, and communities alike.
By making small, thoughtful changes and pushing for bigger systemic support, we can build a future where carers feel recognised, supported, and empowered every day.
