UNION bosses are calling for a fairer deal for nearly 17,000 people in South Tyneside who look after elderly or infirm relatives.

The GMB wants employers to sign up to a charter that makes it easier for unpaid carers to combine their job with their family roles.

Research by the union shows there are 16,740 people in the borough who have responsibilities as a carer – 11.3 per cent of the population.

Of these, 56 per cent have to devote between one and 20 hours a week to their caring duties, and 44 per cent more than 20 hours.

They are among 286,351 in the North East – 11 per cent of all residents.

The union says employment rights for carers are poor despite the anti-discrimination legislation and Equality Act 2010.

GMB regional secretary Tom Brennan said: “This huge hidden army of unpaid often voice-less carers saves taxpayers billions every year. In many areas there are far more unpaid carers than actual paid care providers in place.

“District nurses estimate that over next few years the number of people needing care will outstrip the number of people providing unpaid care. So to call this a crisis is a huge understatement.

“The lack of funds and Government reluctance to grasp the nettle cannot be allowed to continue. A radical overhaul from society as a whole is required.

“This hidden army of unpaid carers consists, predominately, of women. The impact of caring responsibilities has a huge impact on carers’ health.

They often experience depression, emotional and physical exhaustion – sleep disturbance being just one 
factor which impacts on carers. The rise of young carers is also on the increase.

“There just isn’t adequate support in place for carers. This is further compounded with the squeeze on funds. It is not just comprehensive support that these unpaid carers need, but also emotional support, including respite and short breaks.

“Employment rights for carers are poor, as there is very little recognition or support for such workers within a work-life balance context in the workplace. Despite the anti-discrimination legislation and Equality Act 2010 we have some way to go.”

The union estimates that about one in eight workers have some sort of caring responsibility and that many work part time because if it – with a resulting financial impact.

Mr Brennan added: “Employers need to sign up to a charter that makes it easier for unpaid carers to combine paid work with their caring roles.

“We now know that almost two-thirds of people with dementia live in their own homes. Most need round-the-clock care and most need help with a range of tasks including bathing and dressing. For the carers who look after them, who have dependent children, the impact is massive.”

http://www.shieldsgazette.com/news/union-calls-for-fairer-deal-for-carers-1-5744682