SOMERSET NHS Foundation Trust (FT), which runs Musgrove Park Hospital, community and mental health services, is celebrating 20 years of supporting unpaid mental health carers.

The team work with carers to develop a plan to assess their health and wellbeing and look at where they need support.

Caroline Mead, Somerset FT’s carers development manager, said: “When we started out in 2002, there wasn’t as much recognition for carers in society and the important work they do for the people they support.

"Today we have so many more resources and opportunities for carers, from peer support to practical advice like employment support.

"We support carers of all ages and backgrounds – from the parents of children and young people, carers of adults of working age, and carers of older people.

"Anyone can be a carer, so it’s vital that we have a variety of support available – there is something for everyone."

Projects achieved over the years include a comprehensive local pack of organisations and resources which are given to carers, as well as a quick reference guide.

The team has also developed an emergency card, so if they are unavailable at short notice then all details of the person they care for is available.

The Venerable Dick Acworth, a volunteer with the Carers Assessment Service for many years, said: "I’ve been involved since 2003 – I had recently retired and my son had been poorly so it made sense to get involved to see how I could help to improve the service.

“Over the years I feel that there have been distinct improvements and more professionals are coming to recognise and value the work that carers do for the people they support – but there’s so much more we can do.

"Although the pandemic has had a huge impact on carers, we are working on building up support and continue to develop carers’ groups which can be a lifeline for those who are isolated.

"As unpaid carers we can sometimes be overlooked, but our role is critical – for example when a patient comes of out hospital, it’s the carer who supports them day to day through their recovery."

Paul Townsend, director of mental health and learning disability care at Somerset FT, said: "The amazing work, commitment and impact of our carers’ service cannot be underestimated, but I also heard how hard it is for carers, particularly with the challenges and worries of the cost of fuel and general cost of living."