A group of carers whose loved ones receive services from Birmingham and Solihull Mental Health NHS Foundation Trust (BSMHFT) have completed a pioneering training programme to help them use their experiences to support others in a similar position.
Developed and delivered by the Meriden Family Programme, an NHS programme which is part of BSMHFT, this Carer Peer Support Training gives carers the skills to help other carers and their families when their loved one has been diagnosed with a mental health condition.
Dr Grainne Fadden, Director of the Meriden Family Programme, explained: “We know that is extremely distressing when a family member or close friend experiences mental health difficulties, for both the service user and their carer and we recognise that it is extremely beneficial for families and carers to talk to someone outside of the Trust network. It can help them to feel less isolated, reduce the stigma around mental health conditions and give them the opportunity to share their concerns with someone who really understands. It also encourages carers to recognise that they need to focus on their own health, both for their own wellbeing and so that they are able to care for their loved one.”