Know How: How is your GP surgery supporting you as a Carer?

NHS England have developed a framework for improving how GP’s surgeries can better support carers of all ages. Carers have said that the support they receive is variable. This scheme is to help GP’s surgeries be more consistent in identifying carers and taking positive steps to promote their health and wellbeing. 

The scheme asks six questions that can be used by general practice to demonstrate how effective it is in recognising and supporting carers. These questions are known as the "quality markers". The scheme has been recognised as good practice by the Care QualityCommission (CQC) who monitor, inspect and regulate health and social care services.

GP’s surgeries should discuss with carers what they have been doing to support them and how they are responding to their needs. One way of doing this is through its patient reference/participation group.

What are the 6 Quality Markers?

• How the practice identifies and registers carers
• How the practice uses its carer’s register to support holistic carer health and wellbeing needs
• How the practice organises itself to understand and respond to the needs of carers
• How the practice makes it easier for carers to access its services
• How the practice communicates with, involves and informs its carers
• How the practice promotes a carer-friendly culture.

 Next time you visit your GP, you can ask what they are doing to support carers.