Unheard carers from minority groups in North Somerset

Healthwatch North Somerset undertook a research project to explore the needs of carers from minority communities in their area. This includes people from Black, Asian and ethnic minority communities; refugees and asylum seekers; Gypsy, Roma and Traveller people; and disabled people. They interviewed eight people from these groups.

All eight participants did not identify themselves as a carer. For some participants, it was necessary to explain the term ‘unpaid carer’ to them. Additionally, all participants reported that no healthcare professional, including GPs or those in other roles, had discussed their caring role with them.

All participants felt that there is a lack of information and support for carers, which is the biggest barrier for them accessing support. There are also language barriers to accessing support for some of the participants. Most participants reported their needs are mostly help with their caring duties and emotional support groups.

The report concludes by highlighting areas for improvement. This includes the need for health and social care services to build strong networks with minority communities, developing appropriate information packs about support for carers, and working with GP surgeries to better identify carers. This report was shared with the Bristol, North Somerset and South Gloucestershire ICB.