Sheffield experts reveal unpaid carers twice as likely to use foodbanks during Covid-19 crisis

Research from the Universities of Sheffield and Birmingham reveals that 106,000 adults across the UK who are currently caring for someone outside of their household, have used a foodbank during the coronavirus crisis.

The analysis, which was produced in partnership with charity, Carers UK, examines data from April 2020 – showing that almost 229,000 unpaid carers have had someone in their household go hungry during lockdown.

Experts say the new findings add to an already worrying picture of the pressures unpaid carers have faced during the Covid-19 pandemic, as younger carers were identified as more likely to live in a household with someone who experienced hunger.

The data shows 12.2 per cent of people aged 17-30 years old were living with someone who was facing hunger in the coronavirus shutdown, compared to 0.7 per cent carers aged 66 or older.

Professor Sue Yeandle, from the University of Sheffield’s Department of Sociological Studies said: “Our new study’s findings should worry us all.

“Covid-19 has brought huge changes that underscore the need for a step-change in support for carers.

“That in April 2020, people in so many carers’ households went hungry and needed to use a food bank to have enough to eat must surely shock the nation.

“It cannot be right that carers are hidden from view, with declining mental wellbeing, or face hunger and food poverty as they care for those among us who need support.”

Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, added: “This pandemic is pushing unpaid carers to breaking point physically and mentally.

“The fact that carers are also twice as likely as the average person to be relying on foodbanks demonstrates just how difficult life is for them right now.”

The charity has called on the government to increase the Carer’s Allowance, which gives people who care for 35 hours or more £67.25 per week.

Carers UK also urge those in power to provide people entitled to the allowance with a £20 coronavirus supplement each week to help them make ends meet during the pandemic.

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