The strain of unpaid caring
Download (PDF 1.32 MB)Summary of report content
Healthwatch Bath and North East Somerset, Healthwatch Swindon and Healthwatch Wiltshire wanted to understand the experience of unpaid carers. They undertook a survey, interviews and focus groups, reaching 133 people.
Carers are at risk of physical injury because of the physical demands of their role, but stress related injuries may not be the focus during GP healthchecks.
It is not just the carers who are affected by their role, but also wider family who watch what happens at home and in healthcare settings.
Those caring for both older and younger generations simultaneously face even greater challenges when trying to meet needs that vary from person to person. Although lots of these carers exist, the issues they face are not widely researched or spoken about.
Carers often experience high levels of isolation and loneliness.
Many carers are unaware of the financial support available to them, including grants for home adaptations and essential equipment.
Carers often feel undervalued and unacknowledged by health and social care professionals.
Carers often experience co-dependency, grief and emotional strain, particularly after the loss of the person they care for. Male carers experience more feelings of isolation and are less likely to seek traditional forms of support.