A SOUTHAMPTON-BASED charity is calling on people in the city to fill out a survey about their experiences of being an unpaid carer for someone living with dementia (June 2022).
The survey has been created by Communicare, which helps vulnerable and isolated people, with Carers in Southampton, and the information collected will be used to build a picture of what support is needed.
Jackie Robinson, Project Development Officer at Communicare, said: “We know there are lots of people in Southampton who are unpaid carers for family or friends living with dementia, and we want to hear from them about their experiences and views on the current support they get. We’re interested in hearing from people who have been carers in the past as well as ones who are caring at present.
“The survey is available to complete online at https://bit.ly/3xp4Qhd or we can provide a paper version, which can be posted or delivered by phone, or face-to-face, for anyone who needs it. If anyone requires a paper version of the survey, please contact me on enquiry@communicareinsouthampton.org.uk or call 02382 500050.
“Being an unpaid carer is a big challenge and often one that many can find overwhelming and lonely, so it’s important that they get as much support as possible. We hope to get lots of responses to the survey, as they will really help us determine what needs to be put in place to help all unpaid carers across the city.”
People have until the end of June to complete the survey.
Debbie Hendry, Specialist Carer Support Worker for Mental Health and Dementia at Carers in Southampton, said: “Unpaid carers need to be heard and be able to share their lived experience. This survey will be an opportunity to voice concerns and help shape future support for carers of those affected by dementia.”
Communicare, which is a friendly, neighbourhood charity, provides services that enrich the lives of lonely and isolated people in and around Southampton.
Its services are staffed by its devoted volunteers, known as Communiteers, who give their time freely.
The charity is currently supporting around 600 individuals/families through tasks including one-to-one telephone befriending and transport for essential appointments and assistance with shopping.
The services Communicare provides are free to users, although beneficiaries are invited to make a donation if they are able to, and Communiteers are offered expenses.
To find out more about Communicare or becoming a Communiteer, please visit www.communicareinsouthampton.org.uk or call 023 8250 0050.
