New information leaflet for carers

A NEW information leaflet for carers – available in GP surgeries across Leicestershire – has been launched.

The county council along with clinical commissioning groups (CCGs) for East Leicestershire and Rutland and West Leicestershire have been working closely with the Carers Delivery Group and local carers’ services to develop the leaflet.

The new Supporting Carers leaflet, funded by a Better Care Fund grant, provides advice for carers on how to get support in their role as well as contact numbers and tips from local carers.

Coun Richard Blunt, cabinet member for adult social care, said: “We want all unpaid carers who are caring for someone who lives in Leicestershire or Rutland to feel valued.

“When people identify themselves as a carer to their GP, they will be given practical advice and information on how to access the support they need to continue in their caring role as well as maintaining their own health and wellbeing.”

Unpaid carers are classed as those who look after, help or support someone who wouldn’t be able to manage everyday life without their help and are not employed to do so.

West Leicestershire GP Dr Chris Trzcinski said: “Carers play a vital role in supporting the health and wellbeing of the person they care for.

“This leaflet will help carers find helpful information, practical tips and advice. It is helpful, for example, to tell your GP practice you are a carer so we can take account for your needs as a carer.

“By registering as a carer with your GP practice, they may also be able to offer flexible appointments, yearly health checks and flu jabs.”