Carers Information, Support, Assistance and Outreach service

Description

Pembrokeshire County Council and Hywel Dda University Health Board are preparing to tender for the provision of a Carers Information, Support, Assistance and Outreach service for adult carers aged 18 and over, who provide unpaid care and support to a relative, friend or neighbour who is disabled, physically or mentally ill, or affected by substance misuse. The aim for the service is to engage with carers, partners and providers alike to deliver an Information, Support, Assistance & Outreach Service that will help improve the lives of carers and their families. The Carers Information, Support, Assistance & Outreach Service will consist of the following service areas: - An accessible Carers drop-in Centre. - A single point of contact for Information, Support and Assistance - Carers’ OutreacH - Carers’ Breaks - Carers’ Grant scheme - Carers’ Training - Carers’ Voice - Website Management - Carers’ Recognition Card - Carers’ Emergency Back-up Scheme Unpaid carers are the single largest provider of care to people with support needs in our communities, and they save the NHS and Social Services billions of pounds every year. The 2021 National Census reported that 12,885 people in Pembrokeshire identified themselves as an unpaid carer, and over 34% provide more than 50 hours of care every week. Published in 2021 the West Wales Carers Strategy sets out a clear vision for how working together to plan, develop and deliver services will improve outcomes for Carers and their families. The Service Provider will be a key partner who will collaborate closely with Commissioners and Stakeholders as we work towards achieving a better outcome for adult carers. The 4 Priority areas, below, were informed by feedback received from engagement activities, as well as the national priorities set by Welsh Government, and the 2017 population needs assessment for West Wales: Priority 1: Improve the early recognition and self-identification of carers including young carers and young adult carers. Priority 2: Ensure a range of services are available to support the well-being of carers of all ages, in their life alongside caring. Priority 3: Support carers to access and maintain education, training and employment opportunities. Priority 4: Support carers to become digitally included.