More than half of carers in paid work provide care for more than 100 hours a week, including sleeping hours, reveals a survey by the Caring Costs campaign.

The survey of 1,042 carers found that the average fall in income for a carer in work was £5,625 per year, while those who give up work lose nearly £10,000. More than half lose out on pension rights and opportunities to save.

The campaign said the loss of pension contributions would lead to a 'dramatic' rise in the number of older carers living in poverty. It estimates 40 per cent are currently in poverty, based on the 1990 General Household Survey.

Just over one-third of carers in work said they were not sure about being able to continue with their current arrangements for the next year.

· From Carers National Association, 20/25 Glasshouse Yard, London EC1A 4JS.

The Caring Costs campaign is a coalition of voluntary agencies, based at the Carers National Association.