London Assembly Addresses Challenges Facing Unpaid Carers
Tomorrow, the London Assembly’s Economy, Culture and Skills Committee will convene to discuss the pressing issues faced by unpaid carers in the capital. This meeting aims to explore the impact of caregiving on individuals’ health, finances, and employment opportunities.
Unpaid Care in London
Recent statistics indicate that 7.8 per cent of London residents are engaged in unpaid caregiving, offering support to individuals with long-term health issues or age-related challenges. Nationally, these caregivers often struggle to maintain employment, with about 40 per cent opting to leave their jobs to provide care, while 22 per cent have had to cut back on their working hours.
Support Systems for Carers
Two primary support mechanisms exist for unpaid caregivers: financial benefits, such as Carer’s Allowance, and respite care arranged through local authorities. However, a troubling statistic reveals that 62 per cent of those receiving Carer’s Allowance live in poverty, indicating that existing support may fall short of meeting their needs.
Panel Discussions Scheduled
The assembly will feature two panels comprised of experts keen to address the realities of unpaid carers. The first panel includes:
- Nadia Taylor, Chair of the Board of Trustees, Carers Network
- John Perryman, Head of Policy, Carers UK
- Rohati Chapman, Executive Director for Programmes, Policy and Impact, Carers Trust
- Allegra Lynch, Chief Executive, Camden Carers
The second panel will focus on broader systemic issues, featuring:
- Steve Shaffelburg, Senior Commissioning Manager, Prevention and Wellbeing – Universal Services, Richmond and Wandsworth Better Service Partnership
Event Details
This important meeting will take place on Wednesday, 10 December 2025, starting at 2pm, in the Chamber at City Hall, located at Kamal Chunchie Way, E16 1ZE. Both members of the media and the public are welcome to attend.
For those unable to attend in person, the session can be streamed live or viewed later via the official webcast or YouTube channel.
Source: official statements, news agencies, and public reports.
https://www.london.gov.uk/who-we-are/what-london-assembly-does/london-assembly-press-releases/how-do-we-care-unpaid-carers
