Recognition, Connection, Dignity, Respect, Empathy – these are the things that we have heard that carers need. We don’t think that they are a lot to ask for, and we are keen to develop resources to improve how social care addresses these needs.

This year we have been working with carers, practitioners and voluntary sector representatives from across England to explore what can be done to improve the experience of carers who access and use adult social care. This work has taken place through four knowledge exchange workshops where those present shared their expertise and experience, alongside the messages from research. We felt privileged to have the opportunity to listen to carers and practitioners, and are keen to ensure that we share our learning as widely as possible.