New report reveals ‘staggering’ value of unpaid carers in South Lanarkshire

New Report Reveals ‘Staggering’ Value of Unpaid Carers in South Lanarkshire

A recent report has shed light on the immense value of unpaid carers in South Lanarkshire, revealing that their contributions save the economy an astounding £1.1 billion every year. The report, a collaboration between Carers Scotland and the Centre for Care, highlights the critical role that unpaid carers play in society. Based on data from Scotland’s Census 2022, the report estimates the total value of unpaid carers in Scotland at £15.9 billion, showing a significant 19.4% increase since 2011.

The growing population of unpaid carers in Scotland indicates an upward trend in both the number of carers and the intensity of care they provide. These unpaid carers offer essential support to family members, friends, and neighbours who rely on their help for everyday tasks. It is projected that two-thirds of all individuals in Scotland will become unpaid carers at some point in their lives.

Carers Scotland and the Centre for Care emphasise the invaluable contribution of unpaid carers to the health and social care system, highlighting that replacing their care would come at a staggering cost to the state. The report calls for increased investment in social care, breaks for carers, improved financial support, and a new duty on health services to prioritize carers’ health and wellbeing.

Richard Meade, director of Carers Scotland, underlines the vital role unpaid carers play in sustaining the health and social care system, stating that their £15.9 billion equivalent support each year is remarkable. He stresses the need to provide adequate support and recognition to unpaid carers to ensure their well-being and quality of life.

Professor Matt Bennett from the Centre for Care at the University of Birmingham underscores the economic significance of unpaid care in Scotland, comparing its value to the NHS budget and expenditures on social services. The report’s findings illustrate the critical savings that unpaid carers generate for health care budgets, indicating that without them, the health and social care systems would struggle to operate effectively.

The report, launched on Carers Rights Day, serves to raise awareness about the vital role of carers and advocate for the support and recognition they deserve. It highlights the necessity of acknowledging and valuing the contributions of unpaid carers in society to ensure their continued well-being and ability to provide care.

In conclusion, the report’s revelations on the immense value of unpaid carers in South Lanarkshire and across Scotland underscore the essential role they play in sustaining the health and social care system. Recognizing and supporting unpaid carers is crucial to ensuring their welfare and enabling them to continue providing vital care to those in need. Initiatives to enhance support for unpaid carers are essential to safeguarding their quality of life and sustaining the invaluable care they offer to society.