Unpaid carers in Sefton have shared honest and powerful stories about the reality of caring for someone they love, showing the huge impact it has on their daily lives and wellbeing.

Picture of the pressures carers face

In April 2026, Sefton Carers Centre brought together a small group of unpaid carers to talk openly about their experiences. The session created a safe space for carers to speak about their lives, not just the people they care for.

A report on what they shared shows a clear picture of the pressures carers face. It also highlights the support that makes the biggest difference to them.

Carers said that caring is emotionally exhausting and never really stops. Many talked about feeling overwhelmed, anxious, frustrated and tired most days. For them, this pressure is not just during crises – it is ongoing.

Carers also spoke about feeling isolated. Caring often means missing out on social life, hobbies, work, and time for themselves. Some said they had slowly lost their sense of who they are outside of caring. Others described feelings of grief for the life they expected to have.

Money worries

Money was another major worry. Most carers talked about the financial strain of caring and the impact this has on choices, health, and stress levels. Many said caring had affected their own physical health too.

Uncertainty about the future was common. Carers worried about what would happen next, whether support would be there when they needed it, and if they would be able to keep going without more help.

Stronger, more patient, more confident

Despite these challenges, carers also talked about the strengths they have gained. Many said caring had made them stronger, more patient, more confident and better able to speak up for themselves and others.

One of the most important supports carers mentioned was peer support. Being able to talk to other carers who understand was described as vital. The carers’ group gave people a place where they felt heard, accepted, and less alone.

Simple things also helped carers cope, such as walking, listening to music, spending time with pets, and having moments to breathe and reflect.

Support and advice

Carers were clear that support with their emotional wellbeing and mental health is important to them. Regular support from other carers helps reduce isolation and they value practical help and breaks from caring.

They also said that clear advice and support to plan for the future. And they were glad when they are recognised and valued for what they do.

Sefton Carers Chief Executive, Vicky Keeley, said: 
“This report highlights the importance of listening to carers and shaping support around what they say matters most.

“The session showed that caring affects every part of a person’s life.

“Carers need support that is joined-up, kind, and built around their real experiences. And they also need spaces where they can talk openly and feel less alone.”

Sarah Alldis, Executive Director of Adult Social Care, Health and Wellbeing said:
“In February last year, we launched the three-year Sefton All‑Age Carers Strategy after working closely with carers and partner organisations.

“It sets out how carers of all ages will be supported across Sefton and includes six main priorities.

“Among its aims are ensuring carers are recognised earlier and feel valued for the important role they play, and that young carers receive better support, including when they transition from being a young carer into a young adult carer.

“We also want carers to feel more empowered, and to be involved in decisions that affect them.

“And we want to make information for carers easier to find, clearer, and available in different formats. Carers need to be able to find easily where to go for help with health, money, services, and social activities.”

“We have made good progress in some areas in the first year and also highlights where further focus is needed over the full three years of the Strategy.

“We will continue to be committed to listening and improving, ensuring services for carers across Sefton meet their needs and make a real difference.”

More information and support, is available at www.sefton.gov.uk/information-for-adult-carers or www.sefton.gov.uk/all-age-carers