A new Carer Involvement Lead role has been developed in the South Eastern Trust, specifically for Learning Disability Services. Kate Havern has taken up the position and will work closely with carers who have a loved one receiving support from the Learning Disability Service.
Kate explained how her role will benefit carers, stating, “The main part of my role is to listen to what carers are saying, to hear their experiences, understand their needs and identify what isn’t working. By gathering this feedback, we can identify key themes and bring carers together in workshops to discuss solutions and explore positive outcomes.”
Kate continued, “This new role provides an opportunity for carers to be actively involved. Having a dedicated person to coordinate and confidently bring themes, issues and solutions to the Trust for consideration is a great benefit. Another significant advantage is peer support. Research highlights the importance of peer connections among carers, it offers them an opportunity to share experiences, learn from one another and gain a better understanding of Learning Disability Services and their own journey within it.”
Kate also expressed her gratitude to the carers who have already contributed to shaping the role. “We are arranging an informal workshop to help develop the communications for this role, including flyers and pop-up stands for engagement events. Carers will be directly involved in co-designing these materials because they are the best people to determine what information is most useful to them.”
Carer, Karen Ryan emphasised the importance of carer input into the role, saying, “It is vitally important that carers have a say because every child, adult, or young person they care for has unique needs. As a carer your situation is individual and this role must be tailored to support a diverse range of families.”
Karen added, “This new role will give carers a voice, offer much-needed support and act as a bridge between carers and the Trust. It will ensure that carers’ views are heard and that they are signposted to relevant services, ultimately creating a more positive experience for those who may feel isolated.”
