Definition of a Carer
Individuals irrespective of age, who provide or supervise a substantial amount of care on a regular basis of a child, relative, partner or neighbour who is unable to manage on their own due to illness, disability, frailty, mental distress or impairment.
The term “carer” would not normally apply if the person is:
- a paid carer
- a volunteer from a voluntary agency
- anyone providing personal assistance for payment either in cash or kind
Identifying a Carer
The practice has two processes for identifying a carer:
- Self Identification
The Practice displays a poster on existing notice boards asking carers to let the Practice know about their caring responsibilities.
A note is included on repeat prescriptions asking patients to complete a Carers Referral form, kept on reception.
2. Practice Identification
- Letter and questionnaire to patients
An example would be when the Practice writes to a patient, perhaps as part of the flu vaccination campaign, they may be asked to complete a referral form if they are a carer.
Anyone collecting a prescription on behalf of someone else may be passed a Carers referral form.
- Health Professional identification
All Health Professionals in the surgery complete referral forms when they ascertain a patient is a carer.
Further useful information can be obtained from 'Crossroads, Caring for Carers'. Please visit their website at:-
www.crossroads.org.uk/snpt