Carers' health buckling under the strain

18 June 2012

A survey by Carers Week has shown that 2 in 5 unpaid carers are sacrificing their own health by putting off medical treatment to care for a loved one.

Today is the first day of Carers Week 2012 (18-24 June). The survey was completed by 3,400 carers from across the UK, including those who care for people with Parkinson's.

It showed that caring had a negative impact on 83% of carers' physical health. 87% said caring for a family member or friend has had a negative impact on their mental health.

Need better financial and practical support

We are 1 of the 8 charities involved in Carers Week as we recognise how important carers are to people with Parkinson's but also society at large.

Steve Ford, our Chief Executive commented on the survey results:

"Not only are carers sacrificing their own health, the survey shows how few are getting support, while a quarter of carers surveyed have seen cuts to what little support they are getting.

"This is a further evidence of the growing care crisis. The Government needs to provide better financial and practical support for the unpaid carers so they can look after their health and wellbeing."

The hardest job I have ever had

Barbara Lee cares for her husband who has Parkinson's and Parkinson's dementia.

"Being a carer is the hardest job I have ever had. It's a 24/7 job with no training despite the complex needs my husband has," explained Barbara.

Image left to right: Donna O'Brien (Social Policy and Campaigns Officer), Barbara Lee and Rebecca Harris MP

"I have to rely on family and friends to have a medical appointment since my husband cannot be left on his own. I also have to cancel medical appointments time and time again if my husband is unwell.

"So the news today on effects of caring on carer health, emotionally, physically, and socially come as no surprise to me.

"If only surgeries and hospitals would be more flexible in appointment systems and understand the needs of carers."

Desperate need

"In my area, West Sussex, we are in desperate need of Parkinson's nurse but we still don't have one." Barbara continued:

"He or she would be of such help not just to people with Parkinson's but to carers too, providing vital support. It was promised by health planners 2 years ago, then a year ago, and we are still waiting.

"We need health services to work with us carers, not against us."

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