We invited Fiona Harvey, Carers Service Coordinator for the Community Council for Somerset, to tell us about support for unpaid carers in Somerset as COVID-19 restrictions continue to ease.
Carers groups
If you regularly look after someone in an unpaid capacity, such as a friend or a family member, Somerset Carers can support you with advice and guidance and, in association with Spark Somerset, we also run carers groups across the county.
Lockdown changed the way carers were able to meet, as traditional groups were forced to stop and groups began to meet online. Even though lockdown measures have eased, these online communities are still proving popular and are still running, so you now have the best of both worlds!
Face-to-face carers groups across Somerset are once again becoming increasingly well attended. Our groups in Yeovil and Keinton Mandeville can provide support for carers and the people they care for. For example, in the Yeovil group, those who are cared for can enjoy boccia (seated bowling) and coffee with the skilled team from Freedom Leisure, whilst carers can meet new people, chat and connect with others who care for their friends or family members.
You can find out about carers groups in your area by looking at the Carers Hub page on our website, or you can call us on 0800 3168600.
You can also hear me chatting about local carers groups on BBC Radio Somerset where I was joined by Cath Holloway, Carers Development Officer at Spark Somerset and Tanya Campbell who is an unpaid carer as well as the Healthwatch Somerset Engagement Officer: Have a listen.
Carer Champions
Did you know that your GP Practice will have a Carer Champion?
Carer Champions are members of staff, for example a receptionist or a health coach, who will act as the voice of carers in the practice. They will also be the key point of contact for carers information within the practice where they work.
Your Carer Champion can register you as a carer at your GP practice, support you in finding the right information, and assist you in contacting Somerset Carers and your local Village Agent.
You can find out who your Carer Champion is by contacting your GP practice or by emailing Emma McGarva, Carers Co-Ordinator: emmam@somersetrcc.org.uk
Share your feedback
What is it like being an unpaid carer and using health and social care services in Somerset? Share your experience and feedback with Healthwatch Somerset to help improve health and care services.
Complete our short online feedback form or call Freephone 0800 999 1286.