Unpaid Care Policies in the UK

Abstract

The value of unpaid care and carers to the British social care system has become increasingly recognised, especially since the introduction of care in the community policies since 1990. Successive policies and strategies have recognised the heroic contribution to social care made by unpaid carers. Yet, carers remain poorly supported and face ever increasing demands on their time and commitment, while individuals who need support have fewer services to call upon than they did in 1990. This book discusses policy activity on unpaid care across the UK, in the context of increasing marketisation and resource constraint in social care services over three decades. It reflects on continuities and changes over this period, during which unpaid carers’ organisations have gained a place at the heart of policy making and have focused attention on strengthening carers’ rights. It explores the gap between the rhetoric and the realities of policies and makes a case for fundamental change in policy and practice. Such change would include a shift in the balance between unpaid care and publicly funded services for individuals who depend on support, as well as a reconceptualisation of the rights of individuals in care relationships. Drawing on theoretical perspectives from feminist ethics, critical gerontology and social policy, the book presents an argument for policies that recognise the universal need for care and for services that benefit caring relationships.