If you look after a relative or friend who is ill, frail or disabled we would like all of our staff at the surgery to be aware of this. We recognise that caring for someone is an important and valuable role in the community, and know it can be a 24-hour job that can be very demanding.
The practice would like to record in its computerised records that you are a carer. This means that when the surgery is providing you with services it can ensure that your carer status is taken into account. In addition we will be able to pass on useful information to you on facilities available to carers. If you would like to be recorded as a carer please ask a receptionist, nurse or doctor for a carers pack.
In addition it is possible for your doctor to refer you to Social Services for a special needs assessment to support you in your role as a carer. This is a voluntary process separate to the above.
The practice is currently working with Carers in Hertfordshire. They are a voluntary organisation that exists to offer information, advice and support to unpaid carers and offers a local service for those people who are caring for relatives or friends in the North Herts and Stevenage area. More information on carers in Hertfordshire is available at their website http://www.carersinherts.org.uk/ or leaflets are available at reception