IS CARING COSTING YOU A FORTUNE?

Taking on the needs of a loved one can be life changing-and expensive-but there is support available

- GEMMA WILCOCK

No one can be fully prepared for becoming a carer. It often happens suddenly - whether a cancer diagnosis, dementia or a disability, it can be incredibly hard as you deal with the emotions involved with looking after someone you love.

This is an issue that affects one in five of us,* with the demands of round-the-clock care often leaving carers unable to work themselves. If you're looking after someone who needs lots of support, whether that's personal care, food or cleaning their house, that's going to impact your ability to stay in work, which comes with massive implications for your personal finances,' says Christine Casely from charity Carers UK.

The cost-of-living crisis is adding even more pressure. One in six carers is in debt, according to research by the charity, and are being forced to cut back on food and heating. If you've got someone who needs their body temperature regulated, it's not an option to turn the heating off,' says Christine. 'Often, we see these costs coming out of the carer's pocket. When incomes are limited, that is really difficult.

Find out what help you're entitled to...

What can help

If you're a carer, you may be entitled to the following...

CARER'S ALLOWANCE

This is for people who care for someone for more than 35 hours a week. 'Currently sitting at £69.70 per week, this is set to rise this month to £76.75, explains Louise Yasities, elderly care expert at TakingCare Personal Alarms.