Women in their fifties provide more unpaid care in the UK than anyone else.
New data from the ONS reveals that 19.9% of unpaid carers are females in the 55-59 age bracket, while males aged 60-64 provide 13% of unpaid care.
North West has a high level of unpaid carers
The North West is among the areas which have the highest percentage of unpaid carers, with St Helens being the local authority with the most carers working more than fifty hours.
The increase has been noticed by local care communities who offer support for unpaid carers.
Shelley Southern Operations Manager at Liverpool Carers Centre said: “We saw an increase in unpaid carers following a piece of work Liverpool Carers Centre was asked to do behalf of Liverpool City Council.”
The Liverpool Carers Centre provides support to carers with a range of activities.
Help is available
Ms Southern said the centre works towards identifying the support that carers need to enable them to have a life outside of their caring role.
She said: “We offer a range of activities for carers to access including peer support groups, training, Yoga, Tai Chi, Walking groups and cookery.”
Older carers struggle with their own needs
However, carers still struggle to find the time and energy to access such activities.
Ben MacDonald, 62 cares for his ailing wife.
He said: “I help with shopping and submitting and collecting prescription mainly. Now and again I provide personal care if she is having a bad day.
“It can be difficult as I am not getting younger myself and I find it tiring and stressful at times.”
His wife Diane MacDonald, 62, who suffers from ME and arthritis, is often frustrated that she has to receive care.
She said: “I feel guilty as he spends a lot of time caring for me instead of enjoying his own time.
“I get so frustrated as I miss my independence and never wanted anybody to have to look after me.”
If anyone is a carer and needs support they can call the Carers Centre on 0151 705 2307 or search Local Solutions online.
