Carers Voices Annual Report 2022

Carers’ voices often go unheard. We frequently hear from carers that their views are being ignored or not valued, and that as a result, services and support systems are designed without their needs in mind. This increased during the Covid19 pandemic, when many carers felt more invisible than ever before.

In 2022, Care for the Carers brought together our key Carers Voices activities, undertaking a number of listening exercises. We have captured the outcomes in one report – “For Caring Out Loud – East Sussex Carers Voices 2022”. The report is based on what we heard carers say about their experiences, needs and aspirations going forward. It presents a consistent picture of what is important to carers in East Sussex, as we emerge from the pandemic and enter into the most challenging financial times for generations.

The report shares carers’ experiences of navigating health and social care systems, accessing primary and secondary healthcare across East Sussex, challenges around mental health, respite and recognition. We highlight local carers’ views on the role of the support groups and social life, as well as the impact of the rise of cost of living. We share local evidence of how a caring role affects carers, their life, and their health and wellbeing.

As Care for the Carers and other organisations supporting carers, we will work together to respond to some of the challenges shared and help carers access the help and support available in times which remain difficult. The report and its eight recommendations is being shared with decision makers, elected members and service providers across East Sussex, as well as carers charities nationally, in our attempt to make a real difference.

Jennifer Twist, Care for the Carers’ Chief Executive, said: “I wish to extend a heartfelt thank you to all the carers who gave their time to share their experiences and speak openly and candidly about their lives. Our mission is to see no one left to care alone, and we could not do that without carers making their voices heard.”

You can read the full report (including Executive Summary and the eight recommendations) here.