Last month the East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust observed Carers Week. During this time, we spoke with Clinical Excellence Nurse Jan-Axle Enabore about the vital role of carers and the importance of fostering a collaborative healthcare system. As NHS professionals, it’s crucial to acknowledge the invaluable contribution carers make to the health and wellbeing of our patients. Despite their selfless dedication, carers often go unrecognised and face numerous challenges that impact their own physical and mental health.
Balancing caring responsibilities with other roles such as employment and personal life can lead to exhaustion, stress, and financial strain. Many carers don’t even identify themselves as such, viewing their actions as simply fulfilling familial or friendship duties. This lack of self-recognition can hinder them from seeking the support they need.
To address these challenges, we’re committed to raising awareness among our staff about carers’ rights and available support. Partnering with Carers in Hertfordshire, we utilise their Carers Passport for identification and have introduced pink supporting carers lanyards, supported by our hospital charity. These tools offer access to benefits like discounts on food, drink, and parking at our hospital sites.
Furthermore, we’re ensuring our staff are trained to identify carers and offer support, involving them in treatment planning and discharge processes. We also connect them with local charity organisation for additional support.
If you’re a carer utilising our hospital services, our staff and Carer Experience team are here to support you. Reach out to us via email or by calling 01438 286965.
Self-care is essential for carers to manage stress and burnout. Prioritise activities you enjoy, seek support from friends, family, or professionals, and consider joining a support group. Maintain a healthy lifestyle through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep. Set boundaries and communicate your limits to avoid feeling overwhelmed and utilise respite care services for temporary relief.
Regularly scheduling breaks can significantly improve your overall wellbeing and help you better manage caring demands. Carers are the backbone of our healthcare system, and it’s our duty to recognise and collaborate with them to enhance patient care and promote a compassionate healthcare environment. Together, we can create a more inclusive and effective service that acknowledges and supports these unsung heroes.
