Identify a Carer

For information on who is considered a Carer and how best to identify Carers in a clinical setting

Carers’ Partnership Wandsworth aims to support as many Carers are possible.  We aren’t able to do this without the support of professionals who identify and refer Carers to us.

 

Identifying Carers can be difficult, as many people don’t see themselves as Carers or understand the use of the word.  It can be difficult for them to see their caring role as separate from the relationship they have with the person they care for.

Caring can have a big impact on someone’s life, and this is only likely to increase as time goes by.  Even if a Carer is managing now, it’s important to identify them so that they know what help is available. Nobody wants them to wait until their situation reaches a crisis point.

Who is a Carer?

A Carer is someone who provides support to family or friends who could not manage without this help. This could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems. All the care they give is unpaid.

As of 2019 there 1 in 8 people in the UK is caring for someone. Anyone can become a Carer. Carers come from all walks of life and can be any age: some are children and young adults. Many feel they are just doing what anyone else would in the same situation; looking after their mother, son, or best friend and just getting on with it.

If you are a professional and have identified a Carer and would like to refer them to our services  please click the link below and follow the quick and easy guide.

Triangle of Care

The Triangle of Care approach was developed by Carers and staff to improve Carer engagement in acute inpatient and home treatment services in mental health settings.  The approach sees service users, Carers and professionals as equal partners in the recovery of someone’s mental illness.

Carer Awareness is one of key components of the Triangle of Care and is felt essential to embed good practice and work with Carers, family and friends across all teams and staff within Mental Health services

Carer Awareness training is just one aspect of the Triangle of Care and work with families and Carers. It is the first step in further development of skills and expertise in recognising the value. Knowledge and skills that Carers, family and friends bring, that professionals need Carers, family and friends and that working together better helps everyone.

If you would like to find out how Wandsworth Carers’ Centre can support your organisation through Carer Awareness training, please click the link below.

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