More than 30 MPs have backed a parliamentary motionto highlight National Carers' Week that runs from 11-17 June.
Around six million people in the UK currently provide unpaid help and support to a friend or relative who is frail, ill or has a disability, while there are an estimated two million new carers every year, many of whom remain unknown to statutory agencies.
“Being a carer for many people is an all-consuming and life-changing responsibility which can result in them becoming socially isolated,” the early day motion tabled by Barbara Keeley MP says. It also highlights that three million carers juggle work and care, leaving them missing out on opportunities because of their caring role.
Carers' Week, run by a partnership of eight carers charities, aims to raise awareness of carers' experiences including financial problems, health, relationships and social life through a number of events throughout the UK.
Earlier this year, the government pledged it would update the 1999 National Carers' Strategy.
Related items
Carers' Week website
How to support young carers
Updating the 1999 carers' strategy
Bigger Picture on Carers