The results of our baseline survey conducted at the start of the project showed that 25% of carers were isolated, 69% experienced physical health problems, 77% were depressed or anxious and 97% of carers and their households lived below the poverty line.
As well impacting the lives of carers, this project had a significant impact on the relatives for whom they care and other members of their households as a result of sustainable increases in household income, improved wellbeing of the carer and greater awareness amongst community members and local professionals about the vulnerability of carers.
After three years, the project achieved the following:
- 57 support groups were created, bringing together 870 carers for emotional support and local advocacy activities
- 473 local professionals and volunteers were trained and are now assisting carers in accessing counselling and medical support
- 994 carers were trained in livelihoods that can co-exist with their caring responsibilities
- 10 Community Caring Centres were established to provide respite care
- 285 child carers were reintegrated into school
- 2 District-Level Carers Associations and 2 Carers Co-operatives were formed to raise the voice of carers to local government and stakeholders
Significantly, at the conclusion of the project, 88% of the families involved in the project reported having regular incomes that lifted them above the poverty line (compared to 3% at the start of the project). 67% of carers reported that their health needs were reducing and 55% had alternative care options available to them.
Our work with LEADS Nepal continues in the project districts, and the carer-led Carers Associations and Carers Co-operatives continue to go from strength to strength.
