Caring for an older relative while raising children can place pressure on time, finances and day-to-day life.
This is known as sandwich caring. Below, we explain what it means and the support available.
What Is a Sandwich Carer?
A sandwich carer is someone who cares for an ageing parent or relative while also raising or supporting their own children. The term describes being “sandwiched” between two generations who depend on them for care.
This can include helping an older relative with tasks such as attending appointments, managing medication, or day-to-day living, while also looking after children at home or providing them with financial and practical support.
The defining factor is caring for two generations at the same time.
How Common Is Sandwich Caring in the UK?
Sandwich caring is more common than people might think.
According to the latest data from the Office for National Statistics, around 1.4 million people aged 16 to 64 in the UK were sandwich carers between 2021 and 2023. The data shows that 61% were women and more than half were aged between 45 and 64.
Around one in four sandwich carers provide 20 hours or more of unpaid care each week alongside their parenting responsibilities.
These figures reflect how family life has changed. For many people in this position, the word “carer” does not feel relevant. They simply see themselves as looking after family.
The Challenges Sandwich Carers Face
Supporting two generations at once can affect almost every part of daily life. While every situation is different, some challenges are consistent.
- Lack of time: A normal week can include school runs, work, household responsibilities, childcare and caring duties for an older relative. Taking all of this into account, there is usually very little time left for rest or personal space.
- Emotional strain: Caring for a parent and raising children at the same time can cause emotional pressure. There may be concern about a parent’s health, while children still need attention and stability at home. It can feel like neither side is getting everything they need, and guilt is a very common feeling. For families supporting someone with dementia, our dementia guide for caregivers may help.
- Financial pressure: Being a sandwich carer can affect household finances in several ways. Many carers face extra costs such as travel, equipment, and home adjustments. At the same time, everyday living costs continue to rise, which increases pressure on household budgets.
- Impact on work: Balancing employment with caring can be difficult.Some employers offer flexibility, but not all roles allow it. This can lead to reduced hours, career changes, or leaving work altogether in some cases.
- Reduced social time: Friendships, hobbies and downtime can take a back seat when caring responsibilities increase. Over time, this can lead to isolation and fatigue as your social life becomes limited.
Balancing Work and Sandwich Caring
Work can provide structure and financial stability, but it needs flexibility to work alongside sandwich caring responsibilities.
Speak to your employer
An open conversation with your employer can help identify support, such as adjusted hours, hybrid working, or temporary flexibility during difficult periods.
Flexible working rights
Employees in the UK can request flexible working from day one of employment.
Options may include:
- Adjusted start and finish times
- Remote working
- Compressed hours
- Job sharing
Employers must consider requests in a reasonable way, although they do not have to approve every request.
Carer’s leave
Since April 2024, eligible employees can take up to one week of unpaid carer’s leave per year.
This can be used to provide or arrange care for someone with a long-term care need.
Financial Support Available for Sandwich Carers
Support as a sandwich carer may be available depending on personal circumstances, but eligibility varies. It is always best to check official guidance before applying.
Carer’s Allowance
Carer’s Allowance is the main benefit for unpaid carers. Eligibility depends on factors such as:
- Hours of care provided
- Benefits received by the person being cared for
- Earnings and employment status
Full details on Carer’s Allowance are available on GOV.UK.
Universal Credit carer element
Some people on Universal Credit may qualify for the carer element. This is an additional amount included in a Universal Credit award for those providing regular unpaid care for someone with a long-term health condition or disability.
To qualify, you usually need to provide at least 35 hours of care each week. The person you care for must be receiving a qualifying disability benefit, such as Personal Independence Payment (PIP) or Attendance Allowance. In most cases, only one carer element can be paid per household.
Find out more about the Universal Credit carer element and if you qualify on GOV.UK.
Local authority support
Your local council may offer support to you as a sandwich carer, such as:
- Respite care
- Home support services
- Equipment and adaptations
- Carer’s assessments
Looking After Yourself as a Sandwich Carer
Caring for others can take priority over everything else, but your own well-being still matters.
Taking small but practical steps, such as keeping GP appointments, getting rest where possible, staying connected with others, and accepting help when it is offered, is important.
Support is also available through organisations such as Carers UK, Age UK, the NHS and local carers groups.
Useful Resources and Support
Carers UK
https://www.carersuk.org
Dementia UK
https://www.dementiauk.org
Age UK
https://www.ageuk.org.uk
Citizens Advice
https://www.citizensadvice.org.uk
NHS Carer Support
https://www.nhs.uk/social-care-and-support/support-and-benefits-for-carers/
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to care for both children and a parent to be a sandwich carer?
Yes. The term sandwich carer refers specifically to people supporting an older relative while also raising or supporting their own children at the same time.
Can sandwich caring change over time?
Yes. It usually develops gradually as caring needs increase or family circumstances change.
What makes sandwich caring different from other types of caring?
The main difference is the split responsibility. Sandwich carers are supporting at least two generations at once.
Do sandwich carers usually realise they are carers?
Not always. Many people see it as helping family, especially when caring gradually increases over time.
What support can help sandwich carers day-to-day?
Support can include help from family members, local authority services such as respite care, carer’s assessments, and support from organisations like Carers UK or Age UK.
Is sandwich caring likely to increase in the UK?
Yes. With an ageing population and longer life expectancy, more people are likely to find themselves caring for both children and older relatives at the same time.
