Virtual voices: exploring how technology can support carers at home and in the community
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Healthwatch Warrington undertook a survey to which 88 people responded. They worked with a local hospice on a survey to find out how technology can enable new approaches to care at home and in the community.
It is clear from the response that carers who completed the survey do not currently access much online. 60% of carers who responded stated they would likely, very likely or were unsure. 40% of carers responded they would be unlikely to access technology for social support.
Healthwatch wanted to ascertain what people would want if they were to become carers in the future which could help with future planning. There is much more willingness to access online and ideas on what would be useful. The data has stated that 60% of Carers would prefer evening support. This may be due to other agencies being closed and unavailable after 5.00 pm.
This highlights a real need for carers and a potential gap within the current provision. Some carers have said that they would be unlikely to request digital support, this may be due to a lack of confidence and training in how to use some technology. Training and awareness sessions may be beneficial to support all Carers.