Research for the Institute of Public Policy Research (IPPR) found rising demand, shrinking supply, and a growing reliance on unpaid carers. The report says unpaid care – whether by parents, spouses or adult children, and most frequently women – is relied on too heavily to fill in the gaps of the “inadequate and expensive” adult social care system. “We need to build a care system that works like a public service: universal, affordable, reliable and fair. Karen Fuller, director of adult social care at Oxfordshire County Council, said: “In Oxfordshire we have a vibrant care market. “Nevertheless, we recognise that unpaid carers of all ages are essential to our communities and to the social care system.