CHARITY, Carers UK, reveals that eight out of 10 carers in Wales feel lonely or isolated as a result of looking after a loved one.

A third also feel uncomfortable talking to friends about being a carer.

Lack of understanding from friends, colleagues and family, inadequate care services and financial pressures leave millions of people in Wales, caring for older, sick or disabled loved ones struggling with feelings of loneliness and isolation.

Half of carers (49 per cent) report feeling depressed and 83 per cent feel more stressed due to their caring responsibilities.

Over half of carers (56 per cent) have lost touch with friends and family because of their responsibility and half admitted experiencing problems in their romantic relationships due to caring for a loved one.

The new research also found 55 per cent of carers felt that they were unable to get out of the house much due to their responsibilities and 45 per cent couldn’t afford social activities.

There are 370,000 people in Wales who care for older, sick or disabled loved ones.

Carers Wales and Carers UK gives expert practical advice and information and emotional support, connects carers, campaigns for change and innovates to find new ways to reach and support carers.

Carers UK is celebrating 50 years of helping people and has launched a fundraising appeal to enable it to reach out to and support more carers. To help them reach their target, please visit http://www.carersuk50.org/.