Rotarians learn about Carers Network
Members of Strathaven Rotary were given an insight into the vital work of South Lanarkshire Carers Network recently.
The Network was set up just over 20 years ago by a group of unpaid carers, with the aim of supporting and promoting the interests of the thousands of unpaid carers who look after loved ones, neighbours or friends across the county.
Jade Jarvie from the network gave a fantastic presentation and it was a measure of the quality of her speech and the importance of the work that she and her colleagues do that the Rotarians kept plying her with questions until well on into the evening.
Rotarians heard that the responsibilities taken on by this army of carers vary enormously.
This can include someone who just helps with the shopping once a week for a vulnerable neighbour; a child who helps their mother to cope with the housework to allow her to meet the needs of a sibling with special needs; or the person who pops into their friend’s house on the way home from work to check she’s taken her medication and has something to eat.
At the other end of the scale are the many uncomplaining heroes, often elderly or vulnerable themselves, who struggle to wash and dress and feed a loved one who can no longer cope.
The network itself can’t provide ongoing everyday help.
But it does work with the council services and the NHS to make sure that hidden carers are identified, that they are recognised as equal partners in the provision of care, and that they are pointed in the direction of the support pathways that are available.
Every quarter, the Network issues a newsletter which is distributed to all GP surgeries and by post to those carers who are already known to them.
The Network staff also deliver training and information sessions to health and social care partnerships to help them recognise and signpost carers to the available supports and services for which they may be eligible. They can be contacted on 01698 285 163 or through their website at www.slcn.co.uk.