The State of Caring survey is a biennial national study and is Ireland’s most comprehensive research into the lives and experiences of family carers (people who provide unpaid care to a family member, friend or neighbour due to disability, long-term illness, mental health difficulties or ageing).

Survey link: https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/StateOfCaring2026

Evidence from previous State of Caring surveys has been widely used to:

• Inform national and local policy discussions
• Support evidence-based submissions to Government
• Strengthen advocacy on issues affecting carers and communities
• Amplify lived experience through media and public debate

The State of Caring 2026 survey is now open and will remain available for six weeks, closing on 4 March 2026. The survey takes approximately 30 minutes to complete and is primarily online.

To ensure accessibility, we also provide:

• Paper copies of the survey
• Telephone support for carers who may need assistance completing it

Carers who would like a paper copy or support can contact me directly:

• Joanne Murphy, Research Officer|  jmurphy@familycarers.ie | 086 032 6187