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A significant number of respondents identify themselves as having caring responsibilities: 34% of respondents in Carmarthenshire, 35% in Ceredigion and 36% in Pembrokeshire stated this to be the case. Given that 78% of Carmarthenshire respondents, 62% of Ceredigion respondents and 67% of Pembrokeshire respondents had no dependent children (reflecting the high age profile generally of those that responded), it would appear that the majority of those identifying as carers are caring for other adults. It is particularly important to note that these figures significantly exceed the number of carers formally known to partner agencies, as set out in Chapter 7 of this assessment. There are clear implications in terms of ensuring appropriate support to those carers to ensure wellbeing and prevent future demand on core services.
Around a third of respondents claimed to have a health issue that affected their wellbeing (32% in Carmarthenshire, 24% in Ceredigion and 32% in Pembrokeshire). Possibly, the variation across the region reflects the existence of pockets of deprivation within Carmarthenshire and Pembrokeshire which are not present in Ceredigion. However, across the three counties, the incidence of such health issues increases markedly with age. In the 75-84 age group, 49% of respondents in Carmarthenshire, 47% in Ceredigion and 53% in Pembrokeshire said they had a health issue affecting their wellbeing. Corresponding figures for the over 85s were 72%, 67% and 67%. These figures underscore the messages within Chapter 12 relating to the implications of an ageing population and the need for effective preventative services to help people maintain a good quality of life and prevent or delay their need for intensive support.
Many people needing care and support are receiving this from their families.
The proportion of respondents claiming this to be the case was 81% in Carmarthenshire, 71% in Ceredigion and 85% in Pembrokeshire. This contrasted strongly with the numbers reporting to be in receipt of LA care, the corresponding figures being 6%, 8% and 11%. Interestingly, 76% of respondents in Carmarthenshire receiving support from their families felt this was adequate, suggesting a significant proportion who might need more formal care support now and in the future. This reinforces the need to build low level capacity at community level to supplement the care and support provided by families, support carers themselves and keep people as independent as possible.
A range of responses were received in relation to care not meeting needs.
These included:
• Carevisitsatunsuitabletimesandatinfrequentintervals
• LongwaitinglistsforLAcare
• Changesinbenefitsreducingindividuals’capacitytopurchasesupportprivately
• Unmetneedforemotionalsupportandforpracticalhelpfollowingslipsandfalls
• Lackoftrainingandsupportforfamilymembers,forexampleinrelationtomental
health
West Wales Population Assessment March 2017 Consultation and engagement