27.07.2023
This week ended with the last of the current series of Carers Training programmes delivered by DCC – Dementia Carers Count – with a total of 21 unpaid carers enjoying and appreciating information and guidance on a host of topics related to dementia, and the opportunity for these carers to meet together to share their highs and lows and support each other. Towards the end of this week’s session the unpaid carers shared their thoughts about what would have would have helped and what did help them come to terms with the diagnosis and their caring role at the point of diagnosis. Their responses included;
All agreed that easy access to our dementia hubs – in Ashford Place and Barham Library Memory Lounge - had been critical as they were able to access information, advice and guidance from our dementia advisors at a critical time in their role as carers given the fact that there is very little information given at the time of diagnosis.
Carers recommended that access to the hubs should be a key offer alongside the Brent Memory service clinical offer. We have been developing a strong working relationship with the Brent Memory Service over the last few years and are in good stead to jointly offer clinical and community support to our carers and people living with dementia.
Carers indicated their wish that every carer and particularly new carers should be offered a DCC training programme straight after a diagnosis of dementia is made. DCC staff will liaise with the Memory Service to progress this idea.
They also felt that information at diagnosis was limited and this could be improved – so that they understand what dementia is and what to do if/when things deteriorated or progress for their loved one.
And finally, They felt that ongoing support via their GP was a lottery – and often they were left to ‘get on with it’ with little or no support. We are working with e.g. Health Watch Brent and other partners including GPs to resolve this issue. Thanks DCC for making the lives of unpaid Carers in Brent that bit easier.
