Caring together: stories and support from carers working with us
This Carers Week, we’re shining a light on the incredible dedication, compassion and resilience of carers across our Trust community.
Carers bring a unique perspective to the heart of healthcare - bridging the gap between services and the day-to-day realities of those they support and playing a vital role in supporting the wellbeing and recovery of their loved ones. Working in partnership with clinical staff to ensure the best possible outcomes, they provide continuity and care that extends well beyond clinical settings.
Reflecting on the impact carers have made, Head of Social Work and Safeguarding Lead, Victoria Hart said:
“I've been inspired by family, friends and carers that I've had the privilege to work with. We know the best support and care - indeed, the best services - come when we work together and, while I know we still have a long way to go to get where I want us to, we can only get there through co-production and by listening with the desire to change and improve".
Below, you'll find powerful stories from carers sharing what being a carer means to them, and about some of the work happening across the Trust with carers.
Anne Morgan on her recent experience at South London and Maudsley NHS Trust
Anne Morgan, whose family member accesses services at our Trust, emphasises that carers are experts by experience. She speaks about the vital role carers play in their loved one's recovery journey - from early intervention and crisis management, to ongoing support and relapse prevention. She highlights the need to listen to, value and support carers, in order to provide the best possible care for service users. Anne stresses the importance of including carers in the process, noting that it not only makes a real difference to outcomes, but also matters deeply to carers.
Roger, whose daughter accesses services at our Trust, wanted to share his recent experience of a member of the Croydon community team who, as he described, “went the extra mile” during a time of stress and uncertainty:
Annette Davis shares what being a carer truly means to her, reflecting on the complex emotions and roles that come with caring for a loved one with mental health challenges. She also highlights the unpredictability of caring, the importance of self-care, and the need for carers to be heard, valued and involved in decision-making.
Through her involvement Trust initiatives and carer groups, she speaks passionately about breaking stigma, building inclusive support and working together - service users, carers and staff - to improve care:
Patient Involvement Manager, Zoe Linekar, highlights the importance of creating opportunities for families and carers to connect with and better understand the care environment:
"At River House, we understand how important it is for families to stay connected with their loved ones, despite the challenges of doing this within a secure environment. River House is an adult Medium Secure Service at the Bethlem Royal Hospital.
This year, in response to family requests for more insight into the facilities available to their relatives, we introduced quarterly open evenings and tours. On 2 April, we hosted a family, friends, and carers event, where four families were welcomed to experience a guided tour of our Recovery Hub - led by their own relatives. Afterward, they enjoyed time together in the River House cafe, Café Central, outside of the usual visiting rooms.
Seeing families come together in a relaxed setting, sharing moments of pride and understanding, was heartwarming. It was an opportunity for service users to showcase their activities and achievements, and for families to gain deeper insight into the support and resources available. Their feedback spoke volumes:
“I really liked the information presented.”
“I liked the fact that my family member was allowed to be on the tour with me.”
“I never knew there were so many activities and facilities available to patients.”
“This was brilliant. Gave me insight on what happens in River House. Wish this was done sooner.”
Families and carers play an essential role in the wellbeing of their loved ones, and having a better understanding of their environment can make a significant difference. It fosters reassurance, strengthens relationships, and breaks down barriers between staff, patients, and families. We are continuing to work closely with our service users and families to enhance the visiting areas, creating a more welcoming and comfortable space to spend meaningful time together, and look forward to our next family open evening during carers week".
Pictured above: Families and carers had the opportunity to explore a range of River House facilities - including the education room, Café Central, the social space, and the sports hall - gaining a first-hand understanding of the environment and resources available to their loved ones.
As we move forward, we will continue to listen and work together with carers - so that their insights and experiences help guide and improve the way we deliver care. To learn more about opportunities for carers to connect and help shape and improve our services, visit:
