Do you regularly, sometimes all round the clock, without payment, look after someone else who has additional needs or health problems, maybe a partner, parent, child, friend or neighbour?

If the answer is YES, please ensure that you let the surgery know. You will then be registered here as a carer which means that your caring commitments can be taken into account and the practice will do its best to accommodate you with suitably timed appointments whenever possible.

Caring for another person can often mean your own needs take a back seat. The Practice staff and the Patient Participation Group care about carers. We cannot provide any specific carers’ services, nor do we hold a budget, but within the practice we work alongside the “Carers’ Champion” and together we aim to:-

• encourage carers to register themselves as carers. 
• urge carers to look after their own wellbeing as well as that of the person being cared for.
• respond to any feedback/suggestions from carers.
• supply up to date information to signpost carers to essential information and support mechanisms.
• provide information about benefits and knowing your rights as a carer.

So why is all this important?

• Caring can become very isolating.
• Crisis points can be avoided with the correct support.
• A local authority carer’s assessment could identify positive outcomes to support you in your caring role.
• Being healthy makes caring less difficult.
• Opportunities for sharing through carers’ groups can be extremely helpful.
• Information is power.

For Further information, advice and support please click the image opposite for the Carers wales Website.