University of leeds

This is the report of a study undertaken by the University of Leeds and commissioned by the Department of Health that aimed to get a better understanding of how local authorities in England spent their Carers' Grant allocations between 2005 and 2007 and how it enabled them to improve support for carers in their area. First introduced in April 1999, the Carers' Grant is provided to all councils with responsibility for social services in recognition of the support carers need for breaks and other services. [DH website abstract]

In the future most people's lives will include at least one episode of unpaid caring. Find out the facts behind the people who balance their job with caring for a relative or friend.

• Already, 2.5 million people in England and Wales combine paid work with unpaid caring for a partner, relative or friend who is ill, frail or has a disability.

• 1.5 million carers work full-time, and of those, 140,000 care for 50+ hours per week.

• 90% of working carers are aged 30+ - in their prime employment years.