A NEW scheme to strengthen the role of carers who look after people with mental health problems has been launched across Dorset.

Dorset HealthCare has signed up to the Triangle of Care approach, which aims to improve communication between health professionals, service users and their carers – sharing knowledge to help make the right decisions and aid recovery.

Carers have a unique understanding of a person’s mental health history, needs and conditions, and this initiative aims to provide them with more engagement and support from staff in hospitals and out in the community.

The Trust’s Mental Health Recovery and Social Inclusion Lead Phil Morgan, said: “We felt it was important to sign up to the Triangle of Care to ensure we offer the best possible experience for people who access our mental health services, and their families.

“We see this initiative as integral to creating a culture which not only focuses on the individual accessing our services, but also those who look after them.”

Dorset HealthCare delivers care and treatment for conditions such as depression, schizophrenia and eating disorders, as well as dementia and mental health problems relating to pregnancy and childbirth.

Marianne, a carer in Dorset, took unpaid leave from her job for six months to look after her daughter Lauren, who has been suffering from depression and other mental health issues for around six years. Recalling her experiences as a mother and carer, Marianne believes the Triangle of Care will make a huge difference to parents in particular.

“Lauren’s health and wellbeing went downhill very quickly," she said. "She became very isolated and felt she changed as a person, and as parents we had no idea what was happening and weren’t prepared.

“The Triangle of Care will be a lifeline to carers. Having a health professional to call on who understands your situation and the pressures you face will have a big impact.”

*dorsethealthcare.nhs.uk/patients-and-visitors/carers