New research shows unpaid carers seeking formal help with their physical and mental health during the lockdown were unable to access it.
This was at a time when the majority (70%) of carers had to provide more care for older, disabled or seriously ill relatives or friends, and millions more people took on an unpaid caring role.
New research carried out by the Universities of Birmingham and Sheffield, in partnership with Carers UK, shows well over half (58%) of people caring for someone outside of their own home were unable to get through to NHS 111 services in April.
This is compared to 33% of the general public.
89% of carers saw their NHS treatments cancelled or postponed in April, compared to 77% of the general public. As it is difficult for many carers to find the time, or get replacement care, to receive treatment, many will still have unresolved health problems.
Previous research has shown that the pressure of lockdown has taken a huge toll on unpaid carers’ mental health, with many reporting feeling isolated, overwhelmed and worried about burning out.
Those with acute mental health needs have been unable to get help, with the latest findings showing that close to half (42%) of carers needing psychotherapist services were unable to access them in.
Half (50%) of carers needing formal care services could not get them in April, and 40% in May.
Dr Matthew Bennett, Senior Lecturer at the University of Birmingham said: “Before the pandemic, unpaid carers were more likely to experience negative health and economic outcomes. Our new reports on ‘loneliness and use of services’ and ‘financial wellbeing’ show that these have increased.
“We find carers are more likely to have had their NHS treatments postponed or cancelled, and experience greater loneliness, financial strain and financial anxiety for the future. Our findings are worrying. They suggest that the Government policy of ‘protect the NHS’ did not extend across all services, and restrictions in response to the pandemic had a negative impact on carers.
“We hope we can continue to raise awareness of the pressures that carers face as they support others.”
Helen Walker, Chief Executive of Carers UK, said: “Some carers have had to cope for months without any outside support – seeing the health, wellbeing and mobility of the person they care for deteriorate, and their own physical and mental health heavily impacted as well.
“With a large number of support services still closed, carers are desperate for a break. It is imperative that these services are reopened as soon as possible and that local authorities undertake a rapid reassessment of carers’ needs. Likewise, the NHS must quickly identify carers and prioritise their needs and medical treatment. If their health breaks down, the cost will be catastrophic.
“Carers must not be left unaided should there be a second wave or future lockdowns. Their care is vital to supporting older and disabled people in our communities.”
