Almost a quarter of ‘sandwich carers’ are struggling to pay their rent

An overstretched generation of carers are in need of greater support themselves when it comes to keeping a roof over their head, new research shows.

The results of a survey conducted by YouGov on behalf of Aviva shows that a quarter of ‘sandwich carers’ - those who have the dual responsibility of caring for sick, disabled or elderly relatives, as well as their own children - are struggling to pay their rent as a result of their caring duties.

Interestingly, the percentage of those who think their caring responsibilities are affecting their ability to pay their rent was found to be higher in men (32%) than in women (19%).

Above: Chart 1 – “To what extent, if at all, do you agree or disagree with the following statement? (Please select on option on each row - My caring duties impact my ability to pay my rent)”

The study also found that 15% of sandwich carers admit their caring duties are affecting their ability to pay their mortgage.

Alistair McQueen, head of savings and retirement at Aviva, said: “Money is tight for many people, especially for those in the sandwich generation who are having to care for others.”

Above: Chart 2 – “To what extent, if at all, do you agree or disagree with the following statement? (Please select on option on each row - My caring duties impact my ability to pay my mortgage)”

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