The Government has published its first cross-government Unpaid Carers Action Plan, setting out how it aims to improve the recognition and support available to unpaid carers across England.
The plan brings together actions from a range of government departments under three key themes: Recognise, Refer and Reach. While many of the proposals will take time to develop, the Action Plan marks an important step towards ensuring unpaid carers are identified earlier and connected to the right support.
Recognising unpaid carers earlier
Many people who are caring for a family member or friend don't see themselves as unpaid carers, which can mean they miss out on the help and support available to them.
One of the main aims of the Action Plan is to improve the identification of unpaid carers across health, education and other public services. This includes helping GPs, hospitals, schools and colleges to recognise carers sooner and ensure they are signposted to appropriate support.
Earlier recognition can make a significant difference, helping carers access information, advice and services before they reach crisis point.
Making support easier to access
The Government also wants to make it simpler for unpaid carers to find the information and support they need.
Plans include improving signposting to local services, creating a more joined-up approach across organisations and developing better digital information for carers through NHS services.
The aim is to reduce the time carers spend trying to find help and ensure they know what support is available at the right time.
Better support for working carers
One of the most significant announcements is the commitment to improve support for people balancing work and unpaid caring responsibilities. And with more than 600 people leaving work every day because of caring responsibilities, improving support for working carers has never been more important.
From spring 2027, employers with more than 250 employees will be required to publish action plans explaining how they support unpaid carers in their workforce.
This reflects the growing recognition that many people combine paid employment with caring for a family member or friend, and that employers have an important role to play in helping carers remain in work.
Here in South Tees, we're developing new ways to help employers in recognising and supporting unpaid carers in the workplace.
Looking at financial support
The Action Plan also includes commitments to review how financial support works for unpaid carers.
While there are no immediate changes to Carer's Allowance, the Government has said it will look at how the benefit works alongside employment and Universal Credit, with the aim of informing future reforms.
What does this mean for unpaid carers?
Although the Action Plan doesn't introduce major new rights or financial support straight away, it sets out a long-term commitment to improving how unpaid carers are recognised and supported.
Its focus on earlier identification, better access to information and stronger support in the workplace reflects many of the challenges unpaid carers face every day.
What does this mean for South Tees?
Here in South Tees, many organisations are already working together to identify, recognise and support unpaid carers of all ages, including young carers.
At We Care You Care, we work alongside local partners to raise awareness of unpaid caring, help hidden carers recognise their role, and connect people with local support and services.
The Government's Action Plan reinforces the importance of this work and highlights the value of ensuring unpaid carers receive the recognition and support they deserve.
Find support
If you look after a family member, friend or neighbour who couldn't manage without your help because of illness, disability, mental ill health, addiction or older age, you may be an unpaid carer.
You can find information about local support available across South Tees on our website.
