Carers Report
Download (PDF 623.68 KB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Derbyshire spoke to 428 carers about their experiences to understand the quality of life for carers in Derbyshire. They found that most carers had reduced or changed quality of life because of their caring role; caring role had a negative impact on their health; being a carer was a 24/7 job and they had very little, or no time at all for themselves; they were often unable to maintain social contact mainly due to time, finances and unpredictability of the cared for; they were able to have open and honest conversations about their feelings, share experiences and advice.
Carers also found it difficult to find right information and support at the right time and had a small financial benefit to have a carer’s assessment. Carers wanted professionals to take the time to listen to them and offer support when it is needed. They provided feedback about their experiences with GPs, district nurses and social care services.
The report made several recommendations to the Derbyshire Carers Association and Derbyshire County Council and contains a response to each from the providers and the commissioners.