Unpaid carers critical to Alzheimer's support in Yorkshire and Humber
Alzheimer's Society has said unpaid carers do 75% of dementia care in Yorkshire and Humber.
According to an Alzheimer's Society survey, unpaid carers are taking the bulk of caring responsibilities for people with dementia, with family and friends often key to support.
However, with these carers working on average around three working days per week giving support, this can take a toll on their own wellbeing. Almost a quarter said they feel they've lost their identity as a result.
Sian Blackham, spokesperson for Alzheimer's Society in Yorkshire and Humber said: "People are having to give up work, people are having to go part-time, it's having a financial and emotional impact on them which is particularly difficult during the cost of living crisis.
She added that while the focus is understandably on those with dementia, carer's own needs cannot be forgotten.
She said: "They need to be well in themselves physically and mentally, so taking that time for themselves is really important. It's important they don't burn out so if you are struggling, please come to Alzheimer's Society - we're here for you"
The Alzheimer's Society survey also found that over a third of carers felt they didn't have anyone they could go to for help. According to the Office for National Statistics, one in every ten people in England are providing unpaid care.
They organisation is now calling on the government to provide a sustainable funding model for dementia care. Sian Blackham said: "People should be able to access the personal care they need through social care so that they can continue to live the fulfilling lives they want to live - that's why social care needs to be urgently reformed and properly funded."
They are now encouraging people to sign up to a Memory Walk, which can see thousands of people walk for or in memory of a loved one with dementia, raising money for support services.