Carers Allowance Exit Survey

In the UK an estimated 12,000 people per day give up their roles as an unpaid carer to return to work.

It is estimated that as many as 330,000 people are struggling with debt as a major factor being the reason for a return to work.  Our survey allows us to gain the information needed to help us with our aim to shape the future of unpaid care. 

We would be grateful if you could provide as much information as possible. 

The National Unpaid Carers Union and Forum recognises that opening up about our feelings following bereavement can be hard for us all. Those who are struggling with their feelings can visit our partner forum mobilise or click the contact now button below.

Did you identify as an Unpaid Carer?

Did you apply for Carers Allowance?

Thinking back to the time when you first applied for carers allowance, how did you find the application process?

How long were you receiving Carers Allowance?

Why did you stop claiming Carers Allowance?

If you selected Financial Worries in the question above, did you seek employment?

How many hours were you working?

Did you understand the rules around Earnings and Allowances?

Did you ever receive an overpayment of Carers Allowance?

If you said yes to receiving an overpayment, could you tell how much you were overpaid by?

Did the Department for Work and Pensions work with you on a repayment plan?

Did you face any hardship during your repayment plan?


Thank you for participating in the above questions, thinking about the future.

Are you thinking about returning to work?

If you are thinking about returning to work, are you considering a role in a profession that utilises your skills as an unpaid carer?

Have you considered volunteering your time to an organisation?

When we have been an unpaid carer for a long period of time, it can sometimes be difficult to obtain references for voluntary / paid positions. Have you encountered any problems?

What was the outcome?

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