How can we improve support for carers?

This report summarises a Healthwatch Wandsworth consultation on support for carers, carried out to inform the Department of Health's new carers' strategy. The consultation gathered responses from 22 carers and included a discussion group with six carers at the Wandsworth Carers' Centre. Most respondents were unpaid carers, highlighting the significant contribution made by family members and friends who provide care without financial support. 

The report found that while most carers were aware of support services available to them, nearly a third were not, suggesting that information and signposting could be improved. Just over half of respondents felt they received enough support to balance caring responsibilities with work, education and personal life, but more than a third felt they did not receive sufficient support. 

Carers consistently identified respite, breaks from caring, leisure opportunities and emotional support as some of the most valuable forms of assistance. They also highlighted the importance of practical help, training, accessible information, advocacy services and easier access to health and social care professionals.

A key theme was the desire for carers to be recognised as partners in care. Although half of respondents felt valued and involved in decisions about the care of the person they supported, many said they wanted greater involvement in care planning, better communication from professionals, and more recognition of their expertise and contribution. 

The discussion group highlighted examples of good practice, including involvement by some hospital teams, community healthcare professionals, occupational therapists and the Wandsworth Carers' Centre. However, carers also reported difficulties accessing information about support for themselves, variable engagement from professionals, and concerns about complex direct payment arrangements and insufficient support for carers' own wellbeing. 

Overall, Healthwatch concluded that carers require a wide range of support that extends beyond financial assistance. Carers wanted better access to information, respite opportunities, training, emotional support and stronger involvement in decision-making. The report emphasised that carers should be recognised as an integral part of the care network, with their needs, knowledge and expertise fully acknowledged by health and social care services.