Since 2011, VOCAL has carried out a bi-annual survey of unpaid carers in Edinburgh and Lothian as an opportunity for carers to comment on the impact of caring on their lives, carer support services and the services provided by VOCAL. The findings from previous surveys were shared with NHS and local authority partners to inform the development of the Edinburgh and Midlothian Carer Strategies.


Edinburgh Carer Survey 2023

VOCAL conducted the 2023 Edinburgh Carer Survey jointly with Edinburgh Health and Social Care Partnership (EHSCP) and Scotinform. Over 1,150 carers caring for someone in Edinburgh shared their views and experiences. The report reveals the challenges and pressures faced in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic, the cost of living crisis, and demographic changes.

Carers’ responses have been analysed and the findings are outlined in the report below:


Edinburgh and Midlothian Carer Survey 2021

VOCAL conducted the 2021 Carer Survey jointly with partner agencies and Scotinform. Over 1,200 carers caring for someone in Edinburgh and Midlothian shared their views and experiences.

Carers’ responses have been analysed and the findings are outlined in the reports below:


Edinburgh and Midlothian Carer Survey 2017

VOCAL commissioned Scotinform to carry out the 2017 carer survey with over 10,300 surveys sent out to carers in Edinburgh (7,984) and Midlothian (2,291). There was a 12% return rate for Edinburgh and 13% for Midlothian, making a total of 1,228 responses.

Carers’ responses have been analysed and the findings are outlined in the reports below:


Edinburgh and Midlothian Carer Survey 2015

In the latest survey in October 2015, nearly 7,000 carers were invited by VOCAL to take part. Questions focussed on carers’ experiences, the quality of VOCAL support and priorities for the future developments.

940 carers responded and the full findings of the survey are available here.

2015 Midlothian Carer Survey report (full) (PDF)


Edinburgh and Midlothian Carer Survey 2013


Edinburgh and Midlothian Carer Survey 2011