New report explores the experiences of Derby's diverse carers

The most extensive engagement with carers from diverse communities undertaken in Derby to date has provided valuable insight into the realities of caring and the barriers many unpaid carers face in accessing support.

The Derby Diverse Carers Report 2025/26, produced by Community Action Derby through the Derby Diverse Carers Alliance, brings together the experiences of 169 carers who took part in a survey, alongside 446 participations across facilitated group sessions delivered in partnership with 21 trusted community organisations.

Throughout the engagement, carers across different communities and settings consistently described feeling unseen, unsupported and unsure where to turn for help. As one carer said:

"You're always there for everyone else, but no one is there for you."

The report found that many carers are not being identified early enough and often miss opportunities for support until they reach crisis. It also found that many carers need more than signposting, requiring practical, ongoing support to help them understand their entitlements and navigate services.

The findings identify three priorities for improving support:

• Earlier and more proactive identification of carers
• Practical, relational support to help carers navigate services
• Stronger community-based, culturally responsive support models

The report also highlights the important role trusted community organisations play in supporting carers from diverse communities.

With health and social care services under sustained pressure and carers providing increasing levels of unpaid support, the report stresses the importance of building a more inclusive and sustainable carers system. It warns that failing to act now risks more carers reaching crisis point, widening existing inequalities and increasing pressure on already stretched services.

Read the full Derby Diverse Carers Report 2025/26 here