Carers Week aims to raise awareness of caring and highlight the challenges that carers face. Carers week recognises the contribution that carers make to families and communities throughout the UK, drawing attention to just how important caring is.
Nearly all our patients are supported by a relative or friend who will have caring responsibilities but don’t necessarily recognise themselves as a carer. NHS Forth Valley confirmed: “15,056 people in Falkirk are providing un-paid care (9.7% of population). “ Without the right support, caring can have a devastating impact. Evidence shows that caring can cause ill health, poverty and social isolation. For many people caring can be intensive and unsupported they can struggle to hold down a job, get a night’s sleep, and stay health.
Carers are key partners in managing the care needs of the people they look after. But carers also form a hugely significant group of people who need a particular support to look after their own health.
From simple one-off actions to ongoing commitments, there are all kinds of ways Strathcarron Hospice recognise each carer’s role, We involve and consult them about the treatment of the person they care for, and help them look after their own health at the same time. Our team spend times supporting patients and carers through services such as Hospice@Home, befriending, chaplaincy or our Clinical Nurse Specialists. Many people are shocked to find out just how little support there can be but we always strive to support carers to look after their family or friends, and recognise them as individuals with needs of their own.
