The reality of unpaid caring in Wales

New podcast episode explores the reality of unpaid caring in Wales

We're continuing the conversation about the future of health and social care in Wales with the latest episode of our podcast series, In Conversation With...

In episode five, Llais Public Participation and Involvement Lead Jenny Mushiringani Monjero is joined by Jake Smith, Senior Policy, Research and Public Affairs Officer at Carers Wales, to discuss the scale, impact and reality of unpaid caring in Wales.

Across Wales, thousands of people provide unpaid care for family members, friends and loved ones, often balancing caring responsibilities alongside work, education and their own health and wellbeing. In this thought-provoking conversation, Jake shares insights from research and lived experience, exploring why many people become carers without choice and the vital role they play in supporting people to live independently.

The discussion highlights the emotional, physical and financial pressures that many carers face, including the impact on health, relationships, social connections and finances. It also considers how much the health and social care system relies on unpaid care, and why carers deserve greater recognition, support and a stronger voice in decisions that affect them.

The discussion continues about:

• What unpaid care is and the scale of caring across Wales

• Why many people become unpaid carers unexpectedly

• The significant contribution carers make to society and the health and social care system

• The challenges carers face in accessing support and services

• The impact of caring on wellbeing, health and relationships

• Why listening to and involving carers is essential to improving services

  
  

The conversation reflects what people have been telling us through our Health and Social Care We Want project, including the importance of kindness, dignity, respect, joined-up services and feeling genuinely heard.