The Royal United Hospital in Bath is raising awareness of the support available for carers across the Bath & North East Somerset area during Carers Week 2018.
Carers Week began on Monday 11th June and is an annual campaign to recognise the contribution carers make to families and communities throughout the UK.
Around 6.5 million people in the UK are carers, looking after a parent, partner, child or friend.
Sharon Manhi, Lead for Patient and Carer Experience said: “When a loved one is in hospital, the caring doesn’t stop and carers need our support too.
“This includes being involved in decisions about their loved ones care and treatment, thinking about what support the carer might need when their loved one leaves hospital and making sure that carers look after their own health and wellbeing.”
The RUH work with staff, volunteers and local organisations to support carers. In the main entrance they have their Carer Hub, a one-stop-shop with help and advice from experts in a range of areas for carers of all ages.
The Carer Hub is a partnership between the RUH, Friends of the RUH, Bath & North East Somerset Carers’ Centre and Carer Support Wiltshire, with support from other local Carers’ Centres.
Other initiatives include family and carer boards in wards which bring together in one place useful information about the Carer Hub, mealtimes for patients, security of valuables, recliner chairs for relatives to stay overnight and contact details for the ward.
The RUH’s Carer Hub volunteers also visit the wards to speak to carers and signpost them to additional support and organisations.
Future initiatives at the RUH include the launch of a Carers cafe?, which the Friends of the RUH will announce soon. The hospital is also working on developing a Carers Charter, which will highlight their commitment to carers and share what support is available.
The RUH is also supporting John’s Campaign, recognising the right of people with dementia to be supported by their carers in hospital.
Sharon Manhi said: “We’re delighted to support John’s Campaign. Coming into hospital can be particularly frightening for patients who have dementia, as the unfamiliar surroundings, sounds and people can be unsettling.
“Carers and families of people living with dementia are welcome on our wards at all times, including staying overnight.
“Our commitment is to listen, and to do what we can to support you in providing ongoing care to your relative or friend. After all, you know the person best.”
“This Carers Week is the perfect time to highlight John’s Campaign, the developments we’re making for our carers, say thank you to people who care for family members, friends, neighbours or complete strangers and also to ensure that they have the support they need.”
