School Lane SurgeryCarers play a vital role in our communities, providing invaluable support to those who need assistance with daily living, health needs, or social activities. Their dedication and commitment often go unnoticed, yet they are the unsung heroes who ensure that those in their care can maintain a high quality of life.
As a GP surgery, we recognise the immense contribution of carers and are committed to providing them with the support they deserve. However, it is essential that we know if you are a carer to help support you. Often, people will not consider themselves as carers and just see this as being a good friend, neighbour, family member, or spouse. If you answer yes to any of the following questions:
- Do you look after someone?
- Could they manage without your help?
- Do you provide unpaid support to a family member, friend, or neighbour who couldn’t manage without your help?
- Do they need your help because they are frail, elderly, have a physical illness, a long-term medical condition, a disability, a mental health issue, or have an addiction to drugs or alcohol?
Then you are a carer.
Why Should You Tell Us?
Informing your GP that you are a carer means that we can provide additional support and resources that can make your role easier and more manageable. We can:
- Offer regular check-ups to monitor your own health and well-being: Carers often overlook their health due to the demands of caring, which can lead to physical and emotional strain. Regular check-ups can help identify any potential health concerns early on and provide interventions to prevent them from worsening. This includes free vaccinations such as the seasonal flu vaccine or COVID boosters.
- Recommend care and support groups: Support groups offer a safe space for carers to connect with others in similar situations, share experiences, and seek advice and encouragement.
- Signpost to financial assistance and benefits: Carers may be eligible for financial assistance and benefits to help support them with the costs associated with caring, such as travel expenses, respite care, and equipment. We can provide information about these and have a team of Care Coordinators as well as a Social Prescriber in the surgery who can help.
Our Carers Pack
In addition to our ongoing support, are Care Coordinators have also created a comprehensive Carers Pack that provides essential information and resources. This pack includes factsheets, booklets, and contact information for local and national carers organisations.
Together, We Can Make a Difference.
Caring for a loved one can be a rewarding but challenging experience. By letting us know that you are a carer, we can work together to ensure that you receive the support you need to maintain your health and well-being while continuing to provide care for your loved one. Together, we can make a positive impact on the lives of carers in our community.
How Can I Tell You I Am a Carer?
You do not need to be living with the person you look after to be registered as a carer, nor do you need to be in receipt of carer’s allowance. Also, you do not necessarily need to be providing personal care; you may be providing support with practical needs, physical needs, emotional needs, or managing finances.
If you would like to be registered, please complete an online form HERE or ask at Reception for a paper copy.