A groundbreaking pilot survey designed to capture the real-life experiences of unpaid carers has now launched.
Carers Trust Heart of England, Coventry City Council and Warwickshire County Council are calling on all local unpaid carers to take part in this vital initiative to help shape the future of care and support policy.
To complete the survey, please visit: http://surveyofcarers.com/takepart
Remember, if you look after a family member, friend or neighbour who, without your support, would not be able to manage, then you are a carer. They may have a physical or learning disability, dementia, mental health problems, may misuse drugs or alcohol, or may be ill or frail. The person may live with you or elsewhere.
The Survey of Carers has been commissioned by the Department for Health and Social Care (DHSC) and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR). It is being conducted by Matthew Bennett and researchers at the University of Birmingham to pilot the design and delivery of a nationally representative survey of unpaid carers in England.
Unpaid carers provide most of the long-term support in England, yet the data available to policymakers and influencers regarding their daily lives remains significantly limited. This survey aims to bridge that gap by gathering the comprehensive data needed to paint a more complete and inclusive picture of unpaid carers across the country.
The pilot is taking place across the West Midlands and South Yorkshire, utilising improved sampling methods to reach out to carers who may not currently be known to local services.
Claire Dale, Chief Executive Officer of Carers Trust Heart of England, said:
“We know that many people across Coventry and Warwickshire are providing unpaid care for family members, friends and neighbours, often without recognising themselves as carers or knowing what support is available to them.
“At Carers Trust Heart of England, we work every day to raise awareness of caring, recognise the challenges carers face and help them access the support they need to live their lives well alongside their caring responsibilities.
“This survey is a really important opportunity for carers of all ages to tell us about their experiences and the challenges they face. We want to encourage as many people as possible to take part, including those who may not currently be accessing services. By listening to carers and understanding what matters to them, we can help shape better support for carers now and in the future.”
Co-designed with unpaid carers, local authorities, government bodies, and charities, the survey ensures the questions reflect real-life experiences. It will collect vital information on carers’ circumstances, health and wellbeing, work and finances, and protected characteristics.
All responses are strictly anonymous, and no identifiable information will be published in any reports or findings.
How to Take Part
The Survey of Carers officially opened at 9:00 am on Wednesday, 14 October 2026. Carers have until the closing date of 14 December 2026 to submit their responses.
To complete the survey, please visit: http://surveyofcarers.com/takepart
Localised findings from the pilot are expected to be published on the Survey of Carers website in June 2027.
