Time for our ethnic voices; experiences of unpaid carers of Black Men with a serious mental illness

Healthwatch Lambeth engaged with Black carers to understand their experiences of providing care to family members with a Severe Mental Illness. This report draws on carers’ personal stories to highlight the challenges they face in their supporting role and their experience of mental health services. It accompanies and complements ‘A Fulfilling Life, What Matters to Me,’ their report exploring the experiences of Black male service users with a Severe Mental Illness in Lambeth.

This report highlights the need for better support for unpaid carers in mental health services. Many carers do not recognise themselves as such until formally acknowledged, often feeling invisible and undervalued. Early recognition and active engagement are crucial. 

Carers’ involvement in care planning for relatives with Serious Mental Illness is inconsistent. Some feel excluded from decisions, while others report collaboration. Their voices must be heard, ensuring meaningful contributions. 

Communication with professionals significantly impacts carers. Many struggle to access timely, clear information on hospital appointments, treatment updates, and the roles of professionals. Improving communication and addressing digital access barriers is essential. 

Cultural considerations are often overlooked. Providing interpreters and addressing stigma can enhance inclusive and effective care. Perceived racial bias highlights the need for training and full implementation of the Patient and Carer Race Equality Framework (PCREF) to ensure equitable care. 

Carers’ support groups offer vital emotional and practical support. More promotion of accessible services is needed, particularly for diverse communities. Feedback from carers aligns with existing research underscoring the challenges Black carers face and the importance of the ‘Triangle of Care’ model.