More than two million people a year become carers

The charity Carers UK estimates that up to �660m is going unclaimed every year.

It says many people do not view themselves as carers, especially those looking after friends or relatives.

Over two million people become carers every year and they are entitled to an allowance whatever the relationship, the charity says.

Financial support

Carers UK launched its report on Friday, which it has made Carers' Rights Day.

It has produced a series of new leaflets to raise awareness of the financial support available through the Carer's Allowance.

Health Minister Stephen Ladyman said the government backed the campaign and that reaching hidden carers continues to be a real concern.

He stressed the importance of local authorities and charities working together to help carers in their communities.

'Moral' arguments

Imelda Redmond, chief executive of Carers UK, said: "Many people don't see themselves as carers, but as mothers, sons, partners and friends and may not know that they are entitled to help as carers."

Ms Redmond said the work of carers had been valued at �57bn a year and was of vital importance to the UK.

"There are clear moral and economic arguments to make sure carers know about the support that is available," she added.

The charity said many carers faced financial hardship, cutting back on food and essential bills like heat and lighting to make ends meet.

Read a selection of your comments.

Check with your GP and social services and keep pestering them, don't accept being fobbed off Mike, UK

My mother has Alzheimer's and is looked after by my 70-year-old father. He gets a carers allowance for 24 hour care. Mum also goes to a day care centre 4 days a week and he gets four 2 week respite breaks each year. Check with your GP and social services and keep pestering them, don't accept being fobbed off. If the carer also has health issues, as my father does, then the GP can write to social services advising them that the carers health is at risk as well and if they don't do something they will both end up in a hospital or a care home.
Mike, UK

I have COPD and can't do much as at times, I can't move, my wife has to do most jobs about the house, plus take care of me. She has had both hips replaced. I get full mobility, but my wife gets nothing for helping me. I hate that as it's like she does not count, and without her I'd be lost. On the other hand you feel too scared that you may end up worse off, that it puts you off claiming.
Philip, UK

My parents haven't had a holiday in 10 years because they look after my 102 year-old grandfather, and he refuses to go into a home (even for respite care). They cook and clean for him, and often have to help him bathe - It would be nice to see them receive some recognition for their trouble and sacrifice.
Jo Payne, UK

My mother has cared for my physically and mentally handicapped sister since birth. She is now 40 and my mother is 67. Since my mother got to retirement age she can no longer claim a carers allowance and would like my sister to be placed into care. She cannot get a suitable place close to home, she cannot get any financial help as she has "retired" from caring! If she gave my sister up at birth the state would have had 40 years of the costs to look after my sister. Now my mother gets too tired to look after her daughter the state treats her like dirt. I cannot believe the situation and appeal to anyone to help or advise my mother. PS. she also has to care for my father as he has recently had a hip replaced, she gets no help for that either.
Good old Britain!
Gary, UK