Carers for loved ones with acquired brain injury not receiving enough help

The brain injury association Headway are calling upon healthcare providers and social services departments to do more to help carers of someone with an acquired brain injury, after research found that failures in professional support are a key factor in the declining mental and physical health of those living with the challenges of full-time care.

A survey of brain injury carers revealed some alarming statistics, such as that only 7 per cent of carers receive help from social workers, that only 27 percent have actually received a carers assessment, and that 59 per cent are showing signs of clinical depression, with financial hardship as well as the stress of care proving a key factor.

Headway chief executive Peter McCabe commented: “This is a shocking failure on the part of local authorities across the UK. Caring for a loved one who has a brain injury can bring significant pressures and strains, and carers need help.

“Health care services, including GPs, have a duty to diagnose and treat people who are experiencing depression and physical health problems as a result of caring for someone with a brain injury. The results of this survey clearly demonstrate that by and large they are failing to do so. In addition, local authorities have a responsibility to assess a carer's needs, and where appropriate, provide support services such as respite care, professional carers, equipment and information.

“A carer's assessment is the first step to obtaining that help. The fact that people aren't even being made aware that they're entitled to an assessment means people are being left to get on with the onerous and draining task with little or no support. This is leading to significant health problems for carers and an adverse affect on the quality of life of both carers and those they are caring for.”

Last week the association promoted Action for Brain Injury Week 2012, supporting events and fundraising initiatives throughout the country dedicated to raising the profile of brain injury carers within the sector and also in their communities.

Any brain injury carers who feel their role is causing psychological problems are encouraged to ask their GP for a referral to a local therapist.