Survey reveals lockdown's negative impact on Falkirk's carers

The impact of lockdown has hit the confidence of carers across Falkirk, a new survey has revealed.
Laura McKenzie.Laura McKenzie.
Laura McKenzie.

Many people were left to cope with family members as services stopped in March - and that left them unable to take a break.

The survey was designed to get an insight into the impact of lockdown - and ensure carers have a say going forward.

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It was conducted by Falkirk and Clackmannanshire Carers Centre which estimates there are over 15,000 adults in its area providing care and support to family members, other relatives, friends and neighbours.

The people they care for may be affected by disability, physical or mental health issues frailty, substance misuse or other conditions.

The organisation seeks to ensure that carers of all ages are recognised, valued, receive the information and support they need to allow them to care with confidence and in good health, and are able to have a life of their own.

During lockdown, the centre contacted local carers to ask how they were coping - and what support they would like to see going forward.

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The results are now available in a report, and a series of focus groups are planned for October 28 and 29 to take forward the action points identified.

Lockdown was particularly difficult for people caring for a family member at home or in another household.

In many cases, the usual support services that would have been in place for the cared-for person, which in turn would have helped carers to cope, stopped - leaving many people struggling to support their family member and dealing with difficult circumstances.

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A total of 1400 surveys were sent out to local carers, and 159 completed forms were returned.

Laura McKenzie, operations manager at the Carers Centre said: “The feedback received from carers will be essential in ensuring that the Carers Centre continues to shape and develop its service around what carers want and need.

"We would like to thank all the carers who took the time to respond.”

Added Laura: “The centre will also be looking at how best it can communicate to all carers given the climate we find ourselves in health and wellbeing priorities for carers, such as befriending and grant provision and individual and group support.”

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