Carers
Support for Carers in Clackmannnanshire
Who is a carer ?
Carers have a primary role in looking after people who are ill, disabled, vulnerable or frail. Despite the many burdens that may be placed on people who are carers, they often feel rewarded by their role and see it as an extension of an already caring and loving relationship and wish to continue. Carers can also feel stressed and can suffer physical injury through caring, which in turn affects their quality of life and ability to care.
The government knows from research that carers are providing a substantial amount of care, often on their own and without the support of public services. Legislation and new directives from government have raised awareness of carers' needs and set out requirements for action by local authority and health providers in partnership with carers and organisations who support them.
It is estimated that there are 6000 carers in Clackmannanshire. Only a small percentage of carers have been in touch with the partnership of organisations providing services in the Clackmannanshire area. One of our challenges is to identify and reach "hidden" carers, by raising awareness, providing public information and ensuring that staff identify carers in need.
Carer's Assessment
When someone who is providing care for friends or relatives is identified by social services, they are offered a Carers Assessment; This is the means by which social service and health service providers can be informed by carers about the care that they provide, the impact of caring on their own lives and the support they need to continue caring.
Carers can request an assessment and receive information, advice and support from the Community Care Assessment Teams and from the Child Care Team.
Additional Support and Information
The Princess Royal Carers Trustprovides information, advice and support for carers in Clackmannanshire. Their local office is at the Whins Resource Centre, Whins Road, Alloa, tel: 01259 219288.
Strategy for Carers
The Clackmannanshire Strategy for Carers 2005-2008 has been prepared by the Carers Strategy Group. This Strategy sets out our aims, objectives and plans for the improvement and development of services which support carers. The Carers Strategy Group includes representation from carers and monitors improvement.
The NHS Forth Valley Carer Information Strategy is being put into action to ensure that carers are identified in the health care system and that they are informed about health provisions and support available.
Publications & documents
External Links
Contact information
For further information about this page please contact:
Service Manager - Adult Assessment, Adult Care
Lime Tree House, Castle Street, Alloa, FK10 1EX
Tel: 01259 452379 / 450000
Email: adultcare@clacks.gov.uk
Or use the on-line contact form.
Updated: Sep 4 2008 11:02 | Top © Copyright 2000-2008 Clackmannanshire Council. All rights reserved.