Liverpool's Hidden Carers: 41,000 Without Support

An estimated 41,000 residents in Liverpool are providing unpaid care to loved ones without receiving any external assistance. While the council supported approximately 2,600 such individuals in the past year, census data suggests a much larger number are currently shouldering this burden alone. These unpaid carers are vital to the community but often face significant personal challenges.

Recent findings highlight the toll of unpaid caregiving. A national survey indicated that about a third of unpaid carers report "bad or very bad" mental health. Furthermore, 80% experience stress or anxiety, and half feel lonely or depressed, with many worried about the impact of increasing living costs on their ability to continue caring.

Recognizing this critical need, Liverpool City Council is initiating a dedicated partnership to support unpaid carers. This collaborative effort aims to provide resources and assistance to those who care for others, ensuring they do not have to navigate these difficulties in isolation. City leaders emphasize the importance of involving carers in the strategy's development for its ultimate success.