If you are an unpaid carer, your experience matters
- Written by: Joe McCready — Carers UK — Policy Officer
- Published: 10th July 2026
Joe McCready from Carers UK shares how important their annual survey is, and why it is invaluable for unpaid carers to have their say.
Every year, thousands of unpaid carers and former unpaid carers take part in the State of Caring survey, making it the most comprehensive research into the lives and
experiences of unpaid carers in Scotland, and across the UK.
The State of Caring survey is an invaluable resource for us at Carers Scotland, shaping the work we do and allowing us to react to the issues that unpaid carers say are the
greatest challenges they face. Last year, we drew from carers’ responses to the State of Caring survey in order to:
- Secure commitments for carers in Scottish election manifestos.
- Influence legislation, including the right to breaks from caring.
- Support additional financial help, such as the Carer Additional Person Payment.
- Provide evidence on the impact of caring on health.
The evidence created by State of Caring is used by us to persuade policymakers and shape services. The findings are also featured in local and national media, helping to raise awareness of caring across Scotland and beyond. State of Caring also enables us to bring forward evidence from former carers, on the ways in which caring has impacted their future lives and opportunities for employment, good health, retirement and financial security; setting out the long-term implications of caring.
A new Scottish Government and Parliament are now in place, and decisions are being made about health, social care, and support for carers. Strong evidence from unpaid
carers can influence those decisions.
If you are an unpaid carer, your experience matters. We know carers are busy and time is valuable, so we very much appreciate everyone who takes the time to get involved. We read every response we receive, and every answer helps strengthen the evidence we use to campaign for change. If you are an unpaid carer or former carer, please take the time to complete the survey,
which can be found here: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/8GX7Z5T
The survey closes on 9 August and we will share the findings later this year.
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