Carers hospital support and liaison

Carers First have a member of staff on site at the hospital five days a week to help improve carers' experiences while they are in hospital working with our clinical teams and when they go home.

Carers First support anyone who is looking after a relative or friend in hospital with a medical, physical and/or psychological condition. We offer support and advice to relatives when the person they look after is in hospital. We offer information on the help that is available to the relatives/carers once the patient has been discharged.

They provide:

  • One-to-one practical and emotional support within the hospital
  • Liaison between the carer/relative, the discharge team and busy ward staff
  • Information, advice, guidance and support to access
  • Carers Rights under the new Care Act 2014
  • Financial benefits and other entitlements
  • Continuing healthcare funding
  • Power(s) of Attorney, deputyship and explaining mental capacity
  • How to access to emergency respite in crisis situations
  • Access to continued support in the community following discharge including 1:1 and group support, counselling, training and awareness sessions and health and wellbeing days

Making a referral

Referrals can be made by health care professionals, social workers, community teams or by self-referral by calling 0300 303 1555.

You can also complete the online self-referral form on the Carers First website: https://www.carersfirst.org.uk/home

Inpatient comment:

Everyone offered words of such reassurance and kindness. I felt so cared for and the communication with me at all times was fantastic.