Unpaid Work Calculator
The hidden cost of unpaid care
Millions of UK adults in the sandwich generation - those balancing childcare with supporting ageing relatives - are providing an estimated £16,773
Our research shows that if a carer were to pass away, families could face a shortfall of more than £160,000 over ten years - and that’s before considering mortgages, bills or children’s savings.
Introducing the ‘Cost of Unpaid Work Calculator’
To help families see the true financial value of the care they provide, we’ve created a ‘Cost of Unpaid Work Calculator’
The calculator has been designed to help parents assess whether their life insurance payout would be enough to replace their hidden contributions if the worst were to happen.
Explore the rates for your unpaid work below:
Reviewed on 11 Dec 2025
Calculations are based on the current 2025 inflation rate
The calculation of unpaid work is based on two categories: unpaid childcare and unpaid household work (including unpaid adult care and volunteering)