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Understanding the experiences of people who support or care for those affected by cancer
Nationally, there is a lack of information about the experiences of the unpaid people who support or care for others who are affected by cancer. Many people do not think of themselves as a ‘carer’ and do not see themselves as needing the care and support they deserve.
We have been working with several unpaid carers to address this lack of insight. Understanding these experiences will help identify local plans for improvement.
What are we doing?
Together with Wessex Cancer Alliance, we have developed a survey that aims to gather a wide range of carers’ views, adding to the insight from two initial focus groups:
Our aim is to provide stronger insight to inform local action and cultural change.
The survey is open until the end of October 2026. It should take no longer than 10 minutes to do. Please complete it by clicking here.
What will we do with the results?
From November 2026, we will share the results with the carers we are working with and the Cancer Alliances who take part. We will work with them to write a report and recommendations that will feed into our workplans for 2027 onwards. We will publish the report on this website, and will share it with the National NHS care-givers lead.
Can I get involved? Am I a carer?
Anyone who provides unpaid care or support to a family member, friend, neighbour or other person affected by cancer, who needs help with daily life and couldn’t manage without that help, is welcome to answer this survey.
You may not see yourselves as a carer – just a good partner or spouse, parent, (adult) child, or friend. But when these responsibilities become essential to someone else’s wellbeing, even for a short time, that is caring. It doesn’t diminish your relationship; it simply acknowledges the extra emotional and practical load you are carrying.
Please complete the survey if you support someone with:
- their medication or healthcare appointments
- their shopping, cleaning, or cooking
- communication, transport, or dealing with forms and finances
- washing, dressing, or getting around the house
- their emotional and psychological needs
Complete the survey if you think the person you support couldn’t manage without your help.
For more information about whether you are a carer, and some of the support you can receive, please visit: Am I A Carer?
For more information about this project email: gstt.selca@nhs.net
Please note: The Cancer Alliances who have led this work are: South East London Cancer Alliance, East of England Cancer Alliance and Wessex Cancer Alliance, with support from Cheshire and Merseyside Cancer Alliance, RM Partners and Greater Manchester Cancer Alliance.