The number of online searches for financial and wellbeing support for unpaid carers has reached an all-time high.*

Over the last 12 months, unpaid caregivers have turned to Google for advice on coping with the financial implications of providing unpaid care for their loved one:

• 200% increase in online searches on Google for ‘support for unpaid carers’*
• 100% increase in online searches for ‘unpaid carers rights’
• 30% increase in online searches on Google for ‘unpaid carer’

During the same time, searches also reached an all-time high for mental health concerns affecting unpaid carers across the UK, including a 40% increase in searches for ‘carer stress syndrome’ and a 23% increase for ‘carer burnout’.

“We’re now at the tipping point of a caregiver crisis across the UK, with more people than ever before providing unpaid care for a loved one – on top of coping with the increased spike in the cost of living,” shared Lottie’s Seniorcare Lead Ronan Harvey-Kelly. 

“It isn’t surprising to see that online searches for mental health worries from carers have reached an all-time high. Whilst looking after a loved one can be a very rewarding experience, it isn’t without its challenges. Now add into the mix a rise in the cost of living – and possibly financially supporting a loved one – it’s clear to see why the mental wellbeing of carers across the UK is at risk. 

It’s estimated that 5 million people in the UK are juggling caring responsibilities with work – that’s 1 in 7 of the workforce. The government urgently needs to recognise the unpaid care crisis that’s unravelling: all unpaid carers – whether they’re in employment or not – need financial, wellbeing and practical support. It isn’t enough to recognise the crisis; we need clear guidelines on the support available.”

Data released by the ONS last week revealed a shocking number of older adults are struggling to keep up with an increase in energy, utility, and food prices – with 40% of those on lower or fixed incomes significantly reducing their weekly spending on food and groceries. 

Similarly, 6 in 10 older adults have already reduced their gas and electricity usage more than any other age group. 

“Alongside Lottie’s own research, it’s worrying to see the new ONS data release about the rising cost of living – and the impact this is having on everyone across the country, especially the older generations.

Previous research also found 1 in 5 adults over 65 living in poverty – and this will increase further due to the rising cost of living and surge in prices for everyday essentials,” shares Lottie’s Ronan Harvey-Kelly. 

“There is a risk that unpaid carers and the elderly community will become isolated, without the right support. Social isolation can have a devastating impact on your physical health and mental wellbeing, including higher levels of stress, increased feelings of depression and burnout. 

We’re already seeing the stress that unpaid carers are facing in their everyday lives, which will only increase when they’re facing the cost-of-living crisis. Right now, we need to place even more pressure on the government to ensure there’s enough support for unpaid carers across the UK.”

Here’s how employers can support unpaid carers in the workforce

Develop a carer’s policy
Previous research found 350,000 employees leave their employers every year due to their caregiving responsibilities – a 12% increase since 2013. 

As a manager, be proactive and develop a clear carer policy or framework. Communicate with the whole team guidance on what a carer is – many of your employees might not even realise they are providing unpaid support to their loved one. Simply recognising the extra support your employees may be providing for their loved ones outside of work is a huge step in removing the stigma surrounding working carers.

You should develop a dedicated carers’ policy within your HR policies that shares the support your business offers (for instance flexible working arrangements, guidance on career breaks and mental health support). 

Encourage them to open up
Above all, be there for your employees who are juggling caregiving responsibilities – they are under a lot of pressure. A simple chat every week will often do wonders. Employees juggling care responsibilities will likely feel worried, anxious, or stressed and need a place to safely and securely come forward when they’re ready. 

Leading by example and sharing any worries you’re facing can be a huge help – it can help them open up and reach out for support. Take their worries seriously and create an action plan together that reduces any stress surrounding work and at-home responsibilities. 

Offer genuine, practical support
The latest ONS release and Lottie’s research into what carers are searching for online show that extra financial support is needed to ease the cost-of-living crisis. If you can, consider paying your employees the real Living Wage – over 10,000 UK businesses now pay above the government minimum amount to ensure their staff have enough money to cope with the crisis.

You may also consider implementing flexible working arrangements – employees who take care of their elderly relatives would significantly benefit from flexibility, in-case of emergencies. 

Share local carer resources
Being a carer and juggling full-time work is a challenge. Care homes or in-home care can be a great alternative that ensures a loved one is supported. For instance, if an employee’s elderly relative requires 24-hour care, a nursing home can provide this with trained staff.

You may find it helpful to share any local care homes, or in-home help in the area, in a shared community space – whether that’s online or in the office. 

*Lottie’s Seniorcare