Behind the care: what it’s really like to be an Unpaid Carer
- Healthwatch Somerset
- Aug 19
- 2 min read
Updated: Aug 20
Our new report highlights carers' experiences in accessing information and resources and shines a spotlight on the lived experiences of unpaid carers in Somerset, revealing widespread difficulties in accessing timely, clear, and consistent support and information.
Every day, thousands of people across Somerset care for loved ones—often without recognition, formal support, or even realising that they are carers. Our report, “Who Cares?”, gives voice to those unpaid carers and shares what they need to feel seen, supported, and informed.
The report is based on 14 detailed personal stories, over 30 community events, and dozens of conversations with carers, professionals, and volunteers.
These accounts expose the impact on carers who are being frequently neglected by GP's and NHS Specialists during diagnosis and treament of the people they care for.
What we found
Carers often feel overlooked and are forced to prioritise others’ needs over their own well-being.
Many don’t identify as “carers,” which means they miss out on vital support.
Information is often overwhelming, inconsistent, or only available digitally.
Hospital discharges and care transitions can be distressing due to poor communication.
The best support often comes from the voluntary and community sector, not always from formal health or social care services.
Real stories from Somerset carers
One carer, Pat, described navigating their child’s complex mental health needs with no joined-up support. Another, Sam, shared their frustration at a hospital discharge that resulted in lost hearing aids and a medication mix-up.
These stories, while difficult to read, show the resilience of carers - and the cost of poor systems.
“I love my family, but being a full-time unpaid carer is exhausting. At times I feel so undervalued.”
Carer from Somerset
What carers want
Clear, plain-language information
One central place to access support
Paper-based resources alongside digital ones
Better communication from hospitals, GPs, and social care
Recognition and empathy—not just leaflets
Our recommendations
A simple A5 carer contact and support form for use across Somerset
Training and prompts for health and care professionals to routinely ask: “Are you a carer?”
Accessible, health-literate communication in multiple formats
Consideration of a ‘Carers Certificate’ which can be filled with important information to help with appointments and transitions of care
There is progress—but more to do
We’re encouraged by the work already underway across Somerset, from Carers Champions in GP surgeries to upcoming digital improvements. But there’s still a long way to go to make the system truly carer aware.
Carers must be recognised not just as providers of support but as individuals with rights, needs, and knowledge of the systems they navigate.
Download the full report and excutive summary by clicking the link:
