Unpaid carers are the unsung heroes of Britain’s social care system. In Newham and across East London they provide amazing support for their loved ones, often without any recognition. Now they have an opportunity to have their say and to join with others in highlighting the importance of this work.

Carers are being invited to join the NHS East London Community Mental Health Transformation Group under the umbrella of the East London Foundation Trust (ELFT) which is targeting unpaid carers living – or caring for someone in Newham, Tower Hamlets, and City of London and Hackney.

Carers will be paid for their time to take part so long as their loved ones are a current NHS ELFT mental health service user, or have been discharged from the service within the last six months.

The monthly Working Together Group is open to all carers living in or caring for those in Newham.

A 2020 survey of carers about their life and health during the lockdown across the Trust health services highlighted the need to show respect for the role of carers play and strengthen support for them; to improve communication with and information from professionals; to understand the opportunities and challenges of both face-to-face and virtual service delivery; and above all to listen to the diverse voices of carers.

In response, the Trust has undertaken a mapping exercise to understand what is currently provided for carers. They now want to use all this information to help shape a refreshed vision across the organisation. Anyone who would like to be part of the conversation can join. All meetings are online. Contact: heena.patel20@nhs.net .

Eligible participants will be paid for their participation and can register at People Participation by completing the ‘Getting to Know You’ form on https://bit.ly/3k9y2AW

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