Summary
We have identified research which uses Understanding Society data which is relevant to the Committee’s questions on: * the impact of inaction on patients and the public / how people’s lives might change with social care reform * where is the cost of inaction felt the most * the contribution of adult social care to the economy. Summary: * Unpaid carers are at greater risk of being in poverty * Almost all caregivers report worse mental health than non-caregivers * Carers have a lower level of subjective wellbeing compared with non-carers * Local authority spending on care reduces the wellbeing difference * The physical health of unpaid carers deteriorates over time * Carers are ageing, and care remains classed and gendered * Inaction is felt most by older people, women, and/or those with lower socioeconomic status * The number of carers in the UK may have been significantly underestimated * Unpaid care saves government an estimated £23 billion a year