Responding to new ONS figures on carers, Leader of the Liberal Democrats Ed Davey MP said: “These figures confirm something the pandemic has demonstrated: we are a nation of carers. Millions of people are looking after elderly, disabled and vulnerable people. They deserve our support, but are too often forgotten and ignored by people in power.

“Worryingly, the data also reveals that unpaid carers have been impacted more than most by the pandemic, in terms of their well-being, work, finances, relationships, healthcare and access to everyday essentials. Looking after a loved one is always hard, but it’s especially tough right now.
“We must do far more to support our wonderful carers, including raising Carer’s Allowance and giving every unpaid carer a break.
“The Liberal Democrats are standing up for carers and working to build a more caring society as we emerge from this pandemic.”