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UK DHSC Policy Papers & Consultations · UK · 14 Jul 2026 · Administrative

Unpaid carers action plan: recognise, refer, reach

AI-generated summary

The UK government's unpaid carers action plan aims to improve support for people of all ages who provide unpaid care. It focuses on three areas: recognising unpaid carers within themselves and support systems, referring them to available services and support, and enabling them to reach their full potential. The plan acknowledges that navigating care support systems is confusing and adds pressure to carers' existing responsibilities.

From UK DHSC Policy Papers & Consultations

Unpaid carers are a diverse group with a wide range of experiences. They include children, working age adults and older people who may have their own health and care needs.

The experience of navigating the system of support for carers can be confusing and overwhelming, adding further pressure for people who are already managing significant responsibilities. The government is committed to ensuring unpaid carers receive the support they need and this action plan concentrates on 3 central themes:

recognise - ensure people providing care are recognised as unpaid carers, by themselves and by the systems around them

refer - ensure unpaid carers know what support and services are available to make caring more manageable

reach - ensure unpaid carers are able to reach their full potential

Excerpt from the official page. The original is authoritative.