Did you know that 3 in 5 people will become a carer in their lifetime? The ‘Commitment to Carers Pledge’ will enhance and maintain support services for 60,000 carers across Worcestershire.
Many people providing care do not think of themselves as a carer and could be missing out on vital support. A carer is anyone who provides support to a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental ill-health or substance misuse problems.
By working collaboratively, it's possible to reach more carers and identify who may not be aware of the support available to them. By working together, the different communication channels and types of support can be broadened, enabling more carers and their families to engage and receive the help and advice they need.
Worcestershire County Council, NHS Herefordshire and Worcestershire CCG, Worcestershire Acute Hospitals NHS Trust and Herefordshire and Worcestershire Health & Care NHS Trust will develop their own Carers Strategies, which will reflect how the commitment will be delivered in local areas.
Their commitment to carers will be to:
- Proactively identify, register, support, and signpost carers.
- Co-produce services and policies with carers to ensure services meet carers needs.
- Be flexible to ensure carers can continue to deliver their caring role.
- Actively involve carers in decisions that may affect a carer's health and wellbeing or those they care for.
- Promote a ‘Carer Aware’ culture.
Councillor Karen May, cabinet member with responsibility for health and wellbeing said: “Becoming a carer can be overwhelming, you have extra responsibilities, yet you may not know where to turn for support. Although caring can be rewarding, we also know it can also be exhausting. Receiving support at the right time can make a big difference in looking after your own needs and the person you care for."
"Our pledge shows our commitment to carers who we want to feel valued and to help ensure their physical and mental health needs are recognised and met. It will also ensure they can access tailored support and access to relevant information and are supported to maintain their interests, outside of their caring.”
For more information on carer support in Worcestershire visit Worcestershire Association of Carers (carersworcs.org.uk)
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