Carers First and the United Lincolnshire Hospitals NHS Trust have opened the Care Partner Hub at Boston’s Pilgrim Hospital to support the wellbeing of care partners and provide practical advice and guidance.
Sam Marshall is the Community Inclusion Coordinator for the Carers First Lincolnshire services. She said: “The hub is a fantastic opportunity for us to reach more carers, sooner! Providing essential information and signposting to the support available to Carers can help relieve some of the stress during what is often a challenging time for them and the person they are caring for.
“Our great team of volunteers are on hand to provide a safe and comforting space in what can be, for some, an overwhelming situation when a loved one is in hospital.”
The plans have also improved the care partners badge scheme, which helps hospital staff recognise a care partner and ensure they have access to some of the carer elements that they provide, such as more flexibility on visiting and authority to help support at mealtimes.
The refurbishment for the Care Partners Hub has been provided by the United Lincolnshire Hospitals Charity.
The hub is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursdays between 12 noon and 4pm on the sixth floor. Volunteers from Carers First and ULHT offer a wide range of services and resources in a friendly environment, including carer’s assessments referrals and support, carers awareness training for professionals, as well as advice and information.