Are you someone who provides unpaid support to a family member, friend or neighbour who could not manage without your help? This could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled, or has mental ill-health, autism, a learning disability, or drug and/or alcohol problems.

If so, we may refer to you as a carer. We know that being a carer can be very difficult as well as very rewarding.

We hope you find this information about our new care and safety planning approach helpful.

We’ll make sure:

  • Their care planning is tailored to their individual needs
  • They’re involved in every decision about their care and treatment
  • We listen to what matters most to them
  • We take a trauma-informed approach - this means we recognise that past experiences can affect how someone feels today
  • With their permission, we’ll work closely with you, their family, and wider support network

 

The person you care for and their key worker will create a personalised care and safety plan together. This will include:

  • Their goals and what they want to work towards
  • The support that will help them
  • How the plan will be updated as their needs change

We value your insight as a carer. With the agreement of the person you care for, we will involve you in planning their care. 

The care and safety plan has a dedicated section to record views from carers, relatives and advocates. 

You can speak to staff about any concerns you have and, where possible, attend meetings.

We’re committed to involving and supporting carers as much as possible. We need permission from the person you care for to share personal information. If permission is not given, we can still share general information and listen to you, as we know carers often know the person best.

What you tell us is confidential, unless we are worried about safety. In these situations, we may need to share information with the person you support or other services.

It’s important you look after your own health and wellbeing.

As a carer, you may be entitled to support in your own right. This could include a carer's assessment, practical support, or financial help.

Details of local services for information, advice and support are provided on our info for carers webpage. 

We are part of the national Triangle of Care, which promotes strong working relationships between staff, patients, and unpaid carers. We hold regular meetings which you can attend.

To find out more, contact our service user and carer involvement and engagement team

Read more about Triangle of Care on the Carers Trust website.

We want patients and their carers to shape our services, because your views and experiences help us improve. You can get involved by:

  • Joining project groups or meetings
  • Helping with staff recruitment or training
  • Reviewing our services
  • Volunteering

Visit our involvement webpage to find out more.