Exploring unintentional 'carer harm' - Insights from family carers and professionals: An Irish case study

Abstract

This article explores the poorly understood and under-researched topic of carer harm, where family carers experience harm from the person they are caring for. Nine narrative interviews were conducted with family carers of people living with dementia and autism, and two with professionals. Three focus groups were convened with professionals, including social workers, nurses, and advocacy organizations, with four to five participants in each (n = 14). Four key themes emerged: 'Understanding Carer Harm', 'Stigma and Guilt', 'Types of Harm Experienced', and 'Expectations, Responses and Systems that Harm'. Conflicts existed for many professionals when balancing the needs, safety, and protection of all family members. We conclude that a range of intersecting enforceable legal rights would help to ensure that carers are better protected. These rights would include the right to an assessment of need for both the carer and the child or adult with care and support needs, as well as a statutory entitlement to services that the assessment identifies for both parties. Proactive support from a social worker could go some way to addressing the challenges, putting in place a range of supports that prevent harm, reduce risk, and meet the needs of all family members.