Publish date: 7 June 2021
Being a carer for someone with a mental health condition can often be challenging and demanding, with little recognition.
This Carers Week (Monday 7th - Sunday 13th June) Avon and Wiltshire Mental Health Partnership (AWP) NHS Trust wants to help make caring more visible and to say a massive thank you to all of those who care for someone with a mental health condition. Throughout the week AWP will be highlighting the valuable role carers play and reminding them to ensure they seek support for themselves.
There are 6.5 million carers in the UK, many of whom have become an unregistered carer for a family member, child or friend who needs their support.
Jess, who is a carer, said: "Many people become carers automatically as part of their role as a parent, partner or in looking after their parents or loved ones. There are times when you can feel very isolated and alone. Initially I felt that asking for help and support was a sign of failure, but I really wish I'd done it sooner. Accessing help is about taking steps to look after your own wellbeing, as well as the person you care for. If you don't look after yourself, how can you care and support someone else?"
A short video in which Jess reminds carers of the importance of looking after themselves is available to view here
AWP is a member of the national Triangle of Care scheme, run by the Carers' Trust. The scheme encourages the wellbeing of carers and brings together carers, patients, service users and professionals to promote safety and recovery for people with mental health conditions.
AWP has worked with carers to produce a Family, Friends and Carers Charter, which sets out pledges to empower carers and strengthen relationships with families and friends of patients and service users. The pledges include:
- Valuing the experience and expertise that carers have;
- Providing clear, up-to-date information on what to do in a crisis;
- Providing access to an assessment of needs; and
- Recognising the carers rights to talk to staff privately about concerns, and respecting confidentiality.
Director of Nursing for AWP, Julie Kerry, said: "We recognise that carers play a vital role in supporting their loved ones who have mental health conditions. Their experience, expertise and insight into their loved ones is extremely valuable so we are always keen to involve carers and families in the care and treatment of our patients and service users.
"Carers often carry out their role around the clock and many don't get the opportunity to take a break. We actively encourage them to ensure they take time for themselves so that they can continue to support their loved one. I would encourage anyone who provides a caring role to find out about how to access the help and support that is available to them so that they can continue to provide the best possible care to their loved ones.
"Finally I would like to say thank you to all those carers out there for everything they do for their loved ones. The role you play in helping your family member or friend in their recovery and the insight you give us as a Trust to tailor the care we provide and adapt our services accordingly is truly invaluable."
To find out more about the support AWP offers to carers, the Family, Friends and Carers Charter and the Triangle of Care, click here.
