A NEW initiative has been launched this week in a bid to reach out to the thousands of carers who are missing out on support and services.
The Carers Week Quest, is supported by NHS Vale of York Clinical Commissioning Group (CCG), and will include a series of promotions to help those caring for an ill, frail or disabled family member or friend.
Dr Mark Hayes, Chief Officer at NHS Vale of York CCG, said: “Carers can feel isolated and cut off from their local community and this can have a devastating effect on their emotional and physical health.
“We are keen to encourage individuals and organisations to come together to improve how carers in the Vale of York are supported.
Dr Hayes added: “Using our networks and expertise, we want to help our community understand that we all have a role in helping to improve the lives of carers and the people they care for. We will be talking to GP practices across the Vale of York to highlight the vital role they have to play in identifying carers and signposting them to support, advice and information.”
The CCG is also working in partnership with local authorities to review the End of Life Care strategy for the local area.
The CCG has developed a survey to learn more about the perspectives of carers or family members who have looked after someone in the last year of their life. The survey is available online: https://www.surveymonkey.com/s/ValeofYorkCarerSurvey
Dr Hayes said: “We appreciate that this is a difficult topic to think about but it is hoped that your support in completing the questions will help us in the future with organising care and support for people who are at the end of their life.
“At the end of the survey we’ve provided some information on who to contact for support if this raises difficult issues for you. The responses given will be collated and published in the summer, and will inform how future planning takes shape.”
As part of the initiative a TV presentation, posters and leaflets will be available at Kirkbymoorside GP Surgery.
Posters will also be sent to all GP surgeries and libraries in the area.
For more information contact Scarborough & Ryedale Carers Centre on 01723 850155 or visit www.carersresource.net
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