The Think Carer Strategy is a plan for Stockport as a place and a community. The intention is that it will become the focus for work to improve recognition of and support for carers in Stockport over the next 5 years and will help to guide services across the NHS, adult social care as well as charities, the education sector, employers and many other local services.
The development of the strategy also marks a change in how organisations which already support carers will be able to collaborate more readily and influence change across Stockport.
A new Carers Partnership made up of Stockport carers, organisations and partners has been formed and will oversee the implementation and delivery of the strategy. The partnership is co-chaired by a local carer.
Alongside this, a Carers Network is being developed. This is a forum for carers to meet, offer peer support and share experiences. Over time the ambition is that the network will also become a regular opportunity for carers to give feedback about the experiences of caring and suggestions for service improvement. The network and the partnership will strengthen the voice of carers and give them stronger representation.
Think Carers Strategy has 4 key priority areas:
Priority 1: Health and Well-being of Carers
Increased attention to and support for the health and wellbeing of carers, including:
- respite care
- emotional support and counselling
- financial and benefits advice
- advocacy for carers, carers assessment
- GP health checks for carers
Priority 2: Better identification of carers and caring responsibilities by professionals
Better identification of carers and caring responsibilities by professionals. Carers of all ages want health and social care professionals to notice that they are carers, recognise their knowledge and expertise, involve them in discussions that affect them and acknowledge the responsibilities they carry.
Priority 3: Better information and advice and coordination of services
Better information, advice and co-ordination of support when it really matters. Improved co-ordination between services and high-quality information, especially at points of change and transition in caring such as:
- at diagnosis
- on discharge from hospital
- preparing for adulthood
- choosing care or planning for the future
Priority 4: Support for carers in everyday life
Support for carers in everyday life such as work, education and leisure; enabling carers of all ages to have full lives outside of caring by respecting and supporting caring with sympathetic policies and approaches.
If you would like to read the full strategy, email adultsocialcare.practice@stockport.gov.uk to request a copy.
For information, advice and guidance for carers, visit Signpost for Carers.