New support service for carers

A NEW outreach service dedicated to supporting carers has been launched in Fife.

The initiative has been put together by Fife Health and Social Care Partnership, in conjunction with NHS Fife and Fife Carers Centre.

Focusing on Victoria Hospital in Kirkcaldy, it has been introduced as a direct result of engaging face-to-face with 50 carers and patients.

The service is now available for anyone with caring responsibilities, where the person they care for is currently in the Kirkcaldy hospital.

The service can be accessed at any point during a hospital stay and no appointment is necessary.

Sandra Morris, the hospital’s carer support worker, said: “I am here to offer support and information on issues affecting carers while someone is in hospital or after they leave.”

She said this could be helping to ensure the carer is adequately supported in their caring role, or offering advice and assistance with welfare benefits.

Sandra is also on hand simply to provide a listening ear to carers.

Information on other services available to carers or the person they care for is also on offer.

Morna Fleming, the carers’ representative on the Fife Health and Social Care Partnership Board, said: “I very much welcome this new service for Fife.

“This i nitiative within the Victoria is a direct result of engaging with carers and is a positive example of partnership working.”