`Super carers`needs unsupported, new research shows

A generation of `super carers` previously unidentified and
unsupported, have been revealed in new research in Scotland.

The report – Who Cares in Scotland? – has produced results which
contrast starkly with official government research. Commissioned by
Capability Scotland and Carers National Association Scotland, a
survey of disabled people, carers and their families reveals
younger carers, with family responsibilities who are largely
ignored by services.

The survey reveals over 90 per cent of carers are in the 25 to
54 years bracket. Nearly all live with the person they care for.
Almost three quarters care for a child and a quarter for a partner.
Around one third also suffer from a disability or medical problem
themselves.

The results differ significantly from the Scottish executive
household survey, which highlights carers as being older, caring
for someone older than themselves and frequently outside their own
home. The contrast has worried disability organisations that no
need has been identified and no services targeted at this
group.

Michelle Hegarty, director of communications for Capability
Scotland, said: “It raises the question of just how do they
cope?”

Alan McGinley, assistant director of Carers National Association
Scotland, said: “The report helps make the case that community care
is not just about supporting our older people, but is much more
about our children. When it comes to long term care there is no
longer term than of caring for a child with life long
disability.”

The report has been distributed to MSPs through the Scottish
Parliament’s cross party group on disability and the cross
party group on carers.