A groundbreaking pilot survey designed to capture the real-life experiences of unpaid carers has now launched.
Warwickshire County Council is 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.
Cllr Anne-Marie Sonko, Warwickshire County Council’s Portfolio Holder for Social Care and Health, said: “Unpaid carers are the absolute backbone of our social care system, dedicating their time and energy to supporting loved ones. However, their own needs, challenges, and contributions often go unseen.
“This pilot survey is a critical step in ensuring that the voices of carers in Warwickshire and beyond are heard loud and clear. By taking just a few minutes to share your experiences, you are providing the essential evidence needed to improve support, shape future policy, and ensure that unpaid carers are fairly represented. I strongly urge anyone who provides unpaid care to participate.”
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 opens 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.
For further information about the support for carers that is available in Warwickshire visit the website: www.warwickshire.gov.uk/carers