Student Carer Experiences of Higher Education and Support: A Scoping Review

Student carers are students who provide unpaid support to an individual who could not manage without their care. A scoping review was undertaken to determine the themes and concepts which underpin student carers’ experiences within higher education, examine student carers’ experiences of support, and identify any gaps in the literature. A comprehensive literature search was conducted between February and May 2020. The search yielded 2,484 items, of which 14 articles were included in the review. Data from each article were extracted, charted, and analysed using a thematic analysis. The articles revealed that caring responsibilities can have a negative impact on student carers physical and mental health, university performance, and financial status. Both formal and informal sources of support were referenced. Further, it was noted that universities had rigid rules and policies which did not suit the flexible needs of student carers. A paucity of research examined the impact studying had on student’s ability to provide care. Finally, issues relating to research design were observed, and a lack of demographic information, or detail on the caring duties performed was found. A more robust evidence base is required to facilitate the development of interventions to support student carers in education.