Respite care needed for sandwich carers

Caring for a loved one is a profound act of love and dedication, but it can also be a significant challenge. The emotional, physical, and financial demands placed on a carer can be immense, often leading to burnout and stress. Respite care offers a crucial solution by providing temporary relief, allowing carers to take a much-needed break to rest and recharge. This is particularly vital for the growing number of individuals known as ‘sandwich carers’, who find themselves simultaneously caring for their own children or ill loved ones.

What is respite care?

The BBC reported that overstretched ‘sandwich carers’ are caring for their children as well as their elderly loved ones leading them to need emotional support themselves. Being a full-time carer can be very demanding physically, mentally and emotionally. In order to give the carer support, respite care is an alternative option. Respite care provides a carer relief from their caring duties. We provide carers and nurses to take over care duties and allow you to manage your own needs. Preventing you from becoming exhausted and rundown.

Find out more about our respite care at home services

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Sandwich carers

In many cases, primary carers are not just caring for one person, they are managing the care for their whole family. Sandwich carers are individuals who are responsible for the care of their children as well as a loved one needing care. These ‘sandwich carers’ make up approximately 2% of the United Kingdom population. Due to a combination of longer life expectancy and women tending to have children in later life, they are a growing group in our aging population. Performing this care can leave the caretaker feeling undervalued, exhausted, time-poor and stressed. New figures have shown that sandwich carers are more likely to report symptoms of mental ill-health, and as a result, their ability to work is strained, causing stress.

Sandwich carer concerns 

Sandwich carers often find themselves becoming overstretched. They are aiming to provide adequate care for their children as well as the loved ones they are caring for. The carers are not only time-poor but have also reported that they are financial “just about getting by”.

Carers are at risk of becoming isolated, running out of money and being constantly under pressure. Having to juggle their responsibilities of care, work and relationships takes its toll. There are a “huge amount of people” who are sandwich carers. Many of them feel that the huge and unrelenting responsibility they undertake goes without recognition, therefore, feeling as though their life is getting narrower. They are unable to keep in contact with other relatives and friends leads to further feelings of isolation.

A portion of sandwich carers undertake the care of their loved ones as they feel that there is a shortage of reliable carers. This creates difficulties when there are interruptions and gaps in staff available.

Chief Executive of Carers UK Charity expressed that sandwich caring is a “growing problem”. Carers UK estimates that around two million people have left their job as a result of providing care for their children and loved ones. Subsequently, resulting in consequences for their finances and careers.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare we are experts in providing private nursing at home for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and wellbeing, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.

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