What carers want

Healthwatch Wandsworth surveyed 51 carers to understand their experiences and the support available to them. Most respondents were unpaid carers, many providing care full-time or around the clock, often over many years. The survey found that caring frequently had a significant negative impact on carers' physical and mental health.

Many carers reported difficulties accessing support, including carers' assessments, financial assistance and mental health services. While services such as Wandsworth Carers' Centre were highly valued, there was a strong demand for better information, more respite support, and greater recognition of carers' needs across health and social care services. 

Key Findings

• Most carers reported stress, exhaustion, anxiety, depression, loneliness and physical health problems linked to their caring role. 
• More than half had not received a carers' assessment in the previous year. 
• Two-thirds were not receiving Carer's Allowance despite many providing substantial levels of care.
• Most carers had not received training or information about the condition of the person they cared for. 
• Wandsworth Carers' Centre was frequently praised as a valuable source of support. 
• Carers wanted easier access to mental health support, respite care, practical information, financial advice and peer support. 

Conclusion

The report concluded that carers play a vital role but often do so at considerable personal cost. Healthwatch recommended better access to information, support services, mental health provision, carers' assessments and financial guidance, alongside greater recognition of carers throughout the health and care system.