New data reveals the real picture of caring in Bristol

16th February 2026

Every day in Bristol, tens of thousands of people quietly step into a caring role. Some support an ageing parent, others look after a partner, a friend, or a child with additional needs. Many don’t see themselves as carers at all — but the latest figures from Bristol City Council shine a light on just how vital and far‑reaching this hidden workforce truly is.

According to new analysis presented to Carers Support's Carers Voice, 34,000 people in Bristol are carers, representing 7.6% of everyone aged five and over. More than 9,300 of them provide over 50 hours of care every week — the equivalent of a full‑time job and more. 

Behind each number is a person balancing everyday life with an extraordinary responsibility. And the data shows how much pressure many are under.

Carers who are caring the most are feeling it the most

The city’s Quality of Life Survey 2024/25 paints a stark picture. Full‑time carers — those providing 35 hours of care or more — recorded 97 indicators that were significantly worse than the Bristol average, from health and wellbeing to finances and social connection. 

Even part‑time carers aren’t exempt; they experienced 39 indicators that were worse than average, showing that caring responsibilities of any size can have a major impact. 

Women continue to carry the greatest share of caring responsibilities, making up 59% of the city’s carers, and the biggest single group is women aged 50–64. Nearly one in three carers is disabled themselves, highlighting how often support needs exist on both sides of the caring relationship.

Young carers are carrying heavy burdens too

The report includes sobering findings about young carers — children and teenagers who help look after someone at home. The Bristol Pupil Voice Survey 2024 shows that young carers experience worse outcomes across almost every measure of health, wellbeing and school life.

Compared with their peers in Bristol:

• 42% had an unintentional injury last year (32% average)
• 51% said they were frequently bullied (36% average)
• 18% reported low mental wellbeing (13% average)
• 32% missed five or more days of school in the previous month (21% average)
• 57% aren’t getting enough sleep (45% average)

For many of these young people, caring isn’t something they talk about. Some don’t even realise that what they do is caring. But the impact on their health, safety, confidence and education is unmistakable.

Why this matters

The findings underline what we hear every day: carers give so much, often at significant personal cost. As a city, Bristol relies on this unpaid support — but carers shouldn’t have to carry everything alone.

The report calls for:

• Better data to understand the “real” number of carers
• Reducing stigma so young carers feel able to ask for help
• Improving inclusion in surveys and services
• Raising the profile of carers’ needs across the city

At Carers Support, we’re committed to making sure no one feels they have to navigate caring on their own. This new data strengthens the case for improved recognition, support, and outcomes for carers of all ages.