Last updated by ruth.salter@essex.gov.uk on Tuesday, April 7, 2026

Healthwatch Essex have launched a new survey for people who are providing care and support for family, friends or other individuals in their lives 

Healthwatch Essex 'Carers Voices' is commissioned by Essex County Council to gather feedback from carers across the county to find out what’s working well and not so well in order to influence improvements to the support provided for carers.

Breaks for unpaid carers (often called respite or short breaks) are planned periods of time away from daily caregiving responsibilities, designed to support the carer's health, wellbeing, and personal life. These can range from a few hours for shopping to longer holidays, allowing for rest and maintaining social connections. 

A break can include respite/holiday, sitting services, day support, or short‑notice help to attend appointments. The survey is divided into 2 parts : for those who have taken a break, and those who haven’t and/or are unsure how to access them.

Click here to complete the survey - https://forms.gle/wwr1Q7ULZ6uCNAPc6.