3 minute read
I'M A CARER TOO
Claire Dutton, Mersey Care’s new Strategic Carer Lead, explains why her role feels personal, and why she’s excited for the future.
I’m an unpaid carer. I love my caring role; I wouldn’t have it any other way. But I understand first hand how easy it is to forget about your own needs. It can be hard to accept that the love and care you provide is beyond what would be expected. You may not even see yourself as a carer.
A CARER TOO
I’m excited that Mersey Care is launching a new way for carers to get what they need, and all from a single point. We call it the Carers Pathway – what it means for me, and other carers is that we now have a team of people dedicated to helping us to care for ourselves.
You may just want a conversation with them, and to know that you can reach out anytime. If you want more, our Engagement Officers – who each have experience of being a carer – will help you understand what support is available and access what’s right for you.
This might be by referring you to your local Carers Centre, or by introducing you to the team at The Life Rooms, where you can access learning courses, or their pathways advisors, who connect you to other organisations that can help keep you physically and mentally well.
to support the person you care for, and your own wellbeing.
Once you’re registered on the Carers Pathway, you’ll receive regular updates and invitations to events throughout the year. There’ll be opportunities to get involved with the coproduction of new developments within the Trust.
When you’re ready, we’re here for an informal chat. If nine to five doesn’t suit that’s ok, we’ll fit around you.
GET IN TOUCH
Call: Claire Dutton: 07824 432 785
Faye Williams: 07824 433 582
Email: engagement@merseycare.nhs.uk
If you don’t get the right support to look after yourself, it affects everyone; but finding that support can be confusing – you don’t always know where to start.
You might prefer our Carer Training Education and Support course – bespoke to Mersey Care – where you can learn practical ways
Or write to: Claire Dutton, Strategic Carer Engagement Lead, Participation and Engagement Team, Mersey Care NHS Foundation Trust, Hollins Park House, Hollins Lane, Winwick, Warrington, WA2 8WA.
