Supporting Informal Carers: Balancing Care, Work and Wellbeing
Across the UK, millions of informal carers provide vital support for loved ones every day. They may be husbands and wives helping their partners with personal care, daughters managing hospital appointments for elderly parents, or neighbours checking in with meals and companionship. These hidden heroes form the backbone of our social care system, yet too often they feel invisible, exhausted, and without the support they need.
At Gladys, we meet these carers every day. Many don’t even identify as “carers.” They see themselves simply as spouses, children, or friends. But the reality is that caring takes its toll, and supporting informal carers is just as essential as supporting the people they look after. For example hospital discharge can bring many new challenges into the home creating a more complex situation at the beginning of recovery. Having the right support network is crucial, formal support can make the difference between thriving at home or returning to hospital.
The balancing act of unpaid care
Most unpaid carers juggle their responsibilities alongside jobs, children, and their own health needs. It’s common to hear of someone leaving work at lunchtime to check on a parent, or using precious holiday leave to attend hospital appointments. Over time, this constant juggling can lead to carer burnout, financial strain, and declining mental or physical health.
Guilt is one of the hardest challenges. Carers often feel they should cope without help, or that their own wellbeing doesn’t matter compared to the person they support. But in truth, caring well depends on being well yourself. Without rest, recognition, and help, even the most devoted carer can struggle.
A testimonial from one of our clients in Marlborough says:
“When my wife's health started to decline due to Parkinson's Disease, we decided to plan for the future care that was going to be needed. Gladys instantly understood our requirements and introduced us to an experienced carer living in our area, so that we are now set up to call upon help when the need arises.”
Respite care can allow family carers to take a well-deserved break while ensuring their loved one is cared for with the same level of compassion and professionalism.
Carer rights and financial entitlements
It’s important to know that the law recognises unpaid carers. Under the Care Act 2014, carers in England have a legal right to a Carer’s Assessment from their local authority. This assessment identifies what support the carer might need, whether that’s respite breaks, financial help, or access to wellbeing services.
There are also financial benefits that may apply, such as Carer’s Allowance. Depending on your income and the hours of care you provide, this benefit can ease some of the financial burden. Other rights, such as the ability to request flexible working, can also help carers manage the balance between employment and caregiving.
Looking after your own wellbeing
Carer self-care is not selfish - it is essential! Small breaks, such as a walk, coffee with a friend, or a few hours of respite care, can protect against stress and burnout. Many carers also find strength in connecting with others who understand their challenges. Organisations like Carers UK and local support groups provide a lifeline of advice, empathy, and community.
Practical strategies can also ease the load: keeping medical records organised, listing key contacts, and setting realistic boundaries about what you can manage. Remember: asking for help is not weakness - it’s sustainability.
How Gladys supports informal carers
At Gladys, we know that supporting carers is just as important as supporting the people they care for. Our trusted, local carers can step in to provide respite, companionship, or practical daily help - giving unpaid carers time to rest and recharge.
We also offer information to families that might support with some questions that may arise about assessments, benefits, and funding options, so carers understand their entitlements and don’t have to face the system alone. Most importantly, we remind carers that their wellbeing matters too. Caring is not just about sacrifice - it should be about balance, shared responsibility, and dignity for everyone involved.
Final thoughts
Informal carers give so much of themselves every day, often without recognition. But caring should not mean carrying the whole weight alone. Support, rights, and resources exist to help carers live well while continuing to provide love and care for others.
If you’re an unpaid carer, know this: you are not alone. Help is out there, and sometimes the most powerful act of care is allowing yourself to be supported too.
Useful resources for unpaid carers
If you’re caring for a loved one, these organisations can help you understand your rights and find support:
- Carers UK – advice, helplines, and local support groups
- Citizens Advice – practical guidance on benefits, work rights, and local services
