THREE mental health teams have been recognised for their commitment to and support for carers and their families.
Specialist Children and Adolescent Mental Health Services (Sp-CAMHS) Primary Mental Health team, Ty Helyg covering Ceredigion and Canolfan Gwlil covering a part of Carmarthen, have all achieved the Investors in Carers Bronze Level award; a scheme which is delivered by Hywel Dda University Health Board and supported by its local authority and third sector partners in Carmarthenshire, Ceredigion and Pembrokeshire.
The Investors in Carers initiative is designed to help health facilities such as pharmacies, GP practices and hospitals focus on and improve their carer awareness and enhance the help and support they give carers.
Angela Lodwick, Head of Service for Specialist CAMHS and Psychological Therapies said: “I am delighted and extremely proud of the work undertaken by Amanda and the Primary Mental Health Team and they deserve the recognition of this award for their commitment and dedication. It really does reflect our Health Board Values, in particular demonstrating caring, kindness and compassion for people.”
Amanda Aldridge, Primary Mental Health Worker, said: “Whilst it is lovely to receive this award on behalf of Primary Mental health and CAMHS, it is important to remember that the work of supporting Carers and families does not stop here.
“We will endeavour, at all times to ensure a proactive and compassionate service which will have a direct impact on quality care.”
Rebecca Emerson, Assistant Psychologist in Ty Helyg, Aberystwyth said: “The Investors in Carers Scheme has been an opportunity to develop together as a team in a meaningful project.”
Ffion Mainwaring, Community Psychiatric Nurse said: “We are proud Canolfan Gwili gained this award to enable us to support the young carers using our service.”
A carer is someone, of any age, who provides unpaid support to family or friends who could not manage without this help. This could be caring for a relative, partner or friend who is ill, frail, disabled or has mental health or substance misuse problems. Anyone can become a carer; in most cases becoming a carer is not out of choice, it just happens.
For more information about the Investors in Carers scheme or for useful advice for carers, please visit: www.hywelddahb.wales.nhs.uk/carers
