Almost half of the UK’s unpaid carers have seen their physical or mental health worsen since taking on caring duties, according to new research released for Carers Week. An estimated 10.7 million people are currently affected, with this year’s campaign focusing on the theme ‘Caring About Equality’.

A survey of over 2,000 people by Carers UK revealed that 58% of carers feel disadvantaged when it comes to managing their own health. Alarmingly, 40% of current carers have had to cancel medical treatments, appointments, or therapies due to their caring responsibilities.

Women appear to be more impacted than men, with 64% of female carers reporting health inequalities, compared to 52% of men. Many cited difficulties in accessing timely appointments, a lack of support to attend them, or being unable to afford or arrange alternative care for the person they look after.

Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said too many carers are being left behind. She called for greater government investment, improved workplace rights, and better NHS support to break the cycle of poor health and isolation. “Unpaid carers are often invisible, but we all have a role to play in creating a fairer society that properly recognises and supports them,” she said.