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.