Four in five (78%) sandwich carers have admitted to struggling to balance their work and family responsibilities, according to new research by Stiltz.
The domestic lifts manufacturer surveyed 1,000 staff aged 25-65 who provide unpaid care for both older and younger relatives.
The majority (88%) of respondents said they have experienced burnout, 65% feel they have lost their sense of identity outside of work and caring, and 56% feel there is not enough support available to help them manage their responsibilities.
Nearly four in 10 (39%) said their mental wellbeing has worsened since becoming a carer, while 33% admitted they feel they should seek professional help for stress, anxiety or depression due to caregiving.
Many sandwich carers admitted they find it difficult to sustain their working lives alongside caring duties, with 33% reducing their hours at work, 58% reporting increased loneliness and isolation, and 75% feeling guilty about taking time for themselves.
When asked what would help manage their caring responsibilities, 24% said greater workplace flexibility would make the biggest difference. One-third (34%) want more financial support, 14% want better mental health support, and 12% want more access to respite care.
Mike Lord, chief executive officer at Stiltz, said: “Most people don’t realise how much sandwich carers are actually doing day-to-day. The demands never stop, and they vary from day to day. Understanding how much they’re managing is the first step towards offering them the support they desperately need.
“So many people told us they’ve lost time for the things they love, they feel disconnected from their friends, or they’ve had to cut back at work. It’s a huge sacrifice that really deserves wider recognition and support. Our survey shows that more financial support, workplace flexibility, and access to respite care could make a real difference in the lives of sandwich carers. We hope this research sparks greater awareness and encourages more support for these vital yet often overlooked members of our communities.”
