Carers are more likely to experience mental health challenges than adults without caring responsibilities. For those caring for children with Special Educational Needs or Disabilities (SEND) – often referred to as ‘parent carers’ – this risk is heightened by the additional pressures and complexities of their caregiving role.

Researchers at the University of Exeter have been studying parent carers’ mental health in England, exploring the prevalence of mental health conditions and parent carers’ experiences of seeking support for themselves and their children.

One of the key findings from this research is that navigating England’s complex and regionally variable service systems to access appropriate support can have a major impact on parent carers’ mental health.

The interactive map on tab 2 brings together what we’ve learned. It shows how the way services are organised and delivered, and the different situations families face, can work together to either support or put pressure on parent carers’ mental health.

The map shows how different factors connect and influence each other, with short explanations to help you explore these links in more detail. It was developed from interviews and workshops with parent carers and professionals, ensuring it reflects real experiences.

Within the explanations, you’ll also find quotes from parent carers. Their voices are central to understanding what these findings mean in everyday life.