Wiltshire charity, Carer Support Wiltshire have been shortlisted in the 2016 Health Service Journal (HSJ) Awards for their Carers in Wiltshire Partnership – Investors in Carers scheme.

The scheme, funded by Wiltshire Council and the NHS Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group raises awareness of carers in GP practices through a recognition and reward scheme.

Since its inception there has been improved identification of previously unknown carers in Wiltshire, including young carers, with GPs being the main source of these referrals. Most surgeries in the county participate and offer carers health checks preventative services such as flu jabs and access to flexible appointments. Carers can also talk to a support worker, find out about breaks and other means to help them to continue to care well while looking after their own health.

Chief Executive of Carer Support Wiltshire, Catharine Hurford said:

“Joined up commissioning makes sense for carers. By supporting carers close to home and through their GP surgeries, and making the links with the wider health, care and voluntary sectors, we have really been able to make a positive difference to the lives of many carers in Wiltshire. It is fantastic that the work is recognised in this shortlisting for this Health Service Journal award and we are excited by the future possibilities that this recognition will bring.”

Jerry Wickham, Wiltshire Council Cabinet Member for Adult Care, said:

“Carers are the unsung heroes who provide a vital service in our communities. It is so important to care for them and ensure they have the support they need. Congratulations to Carers Support Wiltshire for being shortlisted for this prestigious award which is a great recognition of the tireless role they play in ensuring carers are recognised and supported.”

Dr Peter Jenkins, Chairman of Wiltshire Clinical Commissioning Group said:

“In Wiltshire there are thousands of people who sacrifice their time, health, work and social life in order to care for a loved one. Every carer has their own story; what they do is unwaged, unpredictable, and can be isolating. The joint commissioning of support which helps carers to care for themselves is extremely important and we’re delighted that the Investors in Carers scheme has been recognised through the HSJ Awards nomination.”

For 35 years the HSJ Awards, have recognised, celebrated, and promoted the finest achievements in the NHS, and showcased them to the service’s most influential leaders. Over that time the HSJ Awards have grown to become the most sought after accolade in British Healthcare. With over 23 categories, the awards reflect the full spectrum of the NHS’s services and challenges. The winners will be announced at a ceremony on 23 November at the Intercontinental O2, London.