Nearly one in five parents in the United Kingdom are providing care for adult children who are not in employment, education, or training (NEET), according to a new study. The research, published by the charity Carers UK, highlights the growing financial and emotional strain on families as young adults struggle to enter the workforce.
Financial and Emotional Toll on Families
The study found that 18% of parents with children aged 18 to 30 are acting as unpaid carers, often sacrificing their own careers and savings. Many parents reported working fewer hours or leaving jobs entirely to support their adult children, leading to reduced household income and pension contributions. The average annual cost of caring for a NEET child was estimated at £5,400, covering expenses such as food, housing, and transport.
Emotionally, 62% of parent carers said they felt anxious about their child's future, while 45% reported feeling lonely or isolated. Helen Walker, chief executive of Carers UK, said: 'These parents are often invisible to support services, yet they are making huge sacrifices to help their children get back on their feet.'
Rising Numbers of NEET Young Adults
The number of 18- to 24-year-olds classed as NEET in the UK has risen to 872,000, the highest level in a decade, according to the Office for National Statistics. The pandemic, mental health issues, and a competitive job market are cited as key factors. Young men are more likely to be NEET than young women, and those with disabilities or from disadvantaged backgrounds face the greatest barriers.
The Carers UK report calls for better recognition of parent carers in policy, including access to carer's allowance and tailored employment support for their children. It also urges employers to offer flexible working arrangements for parents in this situation.
Impact on Parental Wellbeing
More than half of parent carers said their own health had suffered as a result of their caring role. Many reported sleep problems, stress-related illnesses, and a lack of time for social activities. One parent, who asked not to be named, said: 'I never imagined I'd be caring for my son at 25. It's exhausting, and I feel like I've lost my own identity.'
The charity recommends that local authorities provide dedicated support for parent carers, including respite care and mental health services. It also suggests that the government review the eligibility criteria for carer's allowance, which currently excludes those caring for fewer than 35 hours a week.
