Released to mark Carers Rights Day 2020, this report looks at the value of unpaid care that has been provided during the first 8 months of the COVID-19 pandemic. 

It estimates that the care provided by people looking after older, disabled and seriously ill relatives and friends during the pandemic stands at £135 billion so far - meaning that with every day of the COVID-19 pandemic that passes, unpaid carers are saving the UK state £530 million in the care they provide.

Previous research we have undertaken in recent months found that the majority (81%) of carers have been taking on more care since the start of the pandemic and nearly two thirds (63%) are worried about how they will continue to manage over winter.

We are calling on the Government to provide additional support for carers over winter and ensure those caring for more than 50 hours a week get access to a funded break.