Carer's Project

Report - 26 August 2025

The growing number of unpaid carers and the significance of their contributions to health and social care has been acknowledged by both national and local government. Due to this, Healthwatch H&F set out to understand the experience of carers through interviews that used qualitative and quantitative methods.

We created a main report, and a compliation of several case studies.

 We found that;

  • Identifying as a carer does not come easily. It is a gradual process, often taking years​

  • Information and materials about recognising/being a carer can be better shared and promoted via GP surgeries and websites​

  • Carers are exhausted, physically and mentally. Treatments, massages, counselling, as well as organised exercise and cultural activities would greatly support carers health and wellbeing.​

  • Practical solutions allowing joint/coordinated GP appointments for carer and cared for would support carers health better.​

  • Respite care/breaks have a huge positive impact for carers and can be the difference between survival and breakdown.

 

Our Recommendations include; 

  • We recommend an annual carers registration awareness campaign.
  • We recommend a review of the carers assessment form in respect of individualisation/ personalisation.
  • We recommend a clear mental and emotional wellbeing support offer for carers
  • We recommend a clear and vocal offer of support to Carers around accessing benefits and gaining employment.

Downloads

For the full report and case studies please see below. 

File download
Full Report
Download (PDF 1.66 MB)
Case Studies
Download (PDF 883 KB)

You might also be interested in

The Cost of Living Crisis

In response to the ongoing cost-of-living crisis, Healthwatch Hammersmith and Fulham (H&F) conducted engagement work to investigate and better understand the experiences of H&F residents. There was a particular focus on the impact on access to healthcare services and appointments, as well as on physical and mental health and wellbeing.
Find out more