Healthwatch Norfolk was commissioned by the Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust (NSFT) to find out more about the experiences of carers with Serious Mental Illness (SMI) in Norfolk, and how they could be better supported.
We gathered feedback in a number of ways including a survey, interviews and an online focus group. In total, we received 64 survey responses, spoke to a focus group of six carers, and interviewed 13 people.
Just under half were dissatisfied with the information they got about the person they supported, and that their voice was not heard. Almost half also said they found it hard to get support for their own health and wellbeing.
They also talked about issues around continuity of care, communication, crisis services, and a lack of trust in services.
Based on what we heard, we made three recommendations:
More staff training to better value, support and involve carers.
Increase communication and information to carers.
Increase both the involvement and voice of carers through things like groups and forums.
