A new report from Carers UK has revealed that three-quarters of unpaid carers are anxious about their future, particularly their financial stability once their caring responsibilities end. The State of Caring Survey 2025, which gathered responses from over 10,000 carers, paints a worrying picture of growing financial hardship and declining health among those providing unpaid care across the UK.

Almost half of respondents said they have cut back on essentials such as food, heating, and transport, while a third have turned to credit cards, overdrafts or loans to make ends meet. Many carers also reported taking on extra hours of care over the past year, with more than half saying their caring responsibilities have increased. Physical health is suffering too — 42% said their condition has worsened, and one in five have sustained an injury due to their caring role.

The survey also highlighted the strain on working carers. Sixty-one per cent said caring duties had influenced their career choices, with many reducing their hours or taking lower-paid jobs to cope. The economic impact of carers being unable to work is estimated at £37 billion a year.

Carers UK Chief Executive Helen Walker warned that without urgent reform, unpaid carers will continue to face exhaustion, poverty and burnout. She urged the government to prioritise better rights, financial support and workplace protections to prevent further hardship.