New research highlights loneliness felt by rising number of people caring for loved ones

Matthew Reed, Chief Executive of Marie Curie, said: “All too often the needs of carers are not fully recognised.

“Our own research shows that over half of carers of family or friends of people at the end of life didn’t get the support they needed from health and social care professionals. And our experience of directly nursing people in their homes at the end of life is that this support for carers is crucial.

“At Marie Curie we know that ensuring carers themselves are fully supported both helps with dying person, but also helps the carers in their own immediate and as importantly long term well being. 

“Ensuring that carers are supported to look after their own health, well-being and finances, as well as prepare them for the future, and after bereavement, is vital. Not only for themselves, and their loved one, but also for the care system. There is a role in this for other professionals, but also for the wider community.

“Caring for a loved one when they have a terminal illness can be immensely rewarding, but it may also entail substantial physical, emotional, social and financial cost. 

“The hidden cost of caring can’t be ignored. Carers need support early on and help with grief and bereavement, as well as their feelings of isolation.”