PART ONE: GOOD PRACTICE GUIDE
1. Aberdeenshire Council
a) Carer Involvement: This is not a service but work which was undertaken following consultation with unpaid carers. Aberdeenshire Council hosted three events to recognise the immense amount of commitment that carers give and work undertaken, in looking after family members. Approximately 200 carers attended the events which were hosted by the Provost and attended by the Director of Housing and Social Work, Senior Council Officers and elected Members. The aims of the event were to give carers some time out, and provide an opportunity to speak to elected members and senior council officers on issues that are important to them. There was also consultation with carers on specific areas that the council is planning on service developments, namely carer assessment and short breaks/respite care.
Aberdeenshire Council is aware of the vital role that carers play in supporting and caring for family members. A report was submitted to Housing and Social Work Committee highlighting the expected increase in the number of carers over the next few years, the vital role that they play and identifying some of the developments that are happening through the social work service to support carers. Aberdeenshire Council asked carers how they would like to be recognised and took forward their suggestions for local, informal events with information available, along with complementary therapies.
Consulting with carers has helped Aberdeenshire Council to improve and develop services around short breaks/respite care and carer assessment. It has also raised the profile of carers with elected Members and shown that the local authority has a commitment to listening to, and working with, carers to improve current services and development of new services.
"All in all, it was a great evening full of good company, camaraderie, information and opportunities for feedback. It was also a chance to take a small break from my caring responsibilities on a practical level, even though I was constantly thinking about them. It's nice to be thanked for what is an extremely difficult 'job' and to be provided with a forum to provide feedback form carers whose voices are so often unheard as they struggle with the difficulties of their charges daily lives."
"Getting a night out away from being a carer is so good. I appreciate this but we should be recognised more for what we do."
"The company and having the opportunity to speak to Councillors and staff in an informal manner - A good idea."
"Meeting other carers was good. Thank you for recognising carers and giving us a treat - it felt super."
b) Rainbow Rogues: A support toddler group which provides for families with very young children who have a disability or additional support needs. The children and their siblings are provided with quality play provision and first steps to inclusion while the parents have the opportunity for some time out with a community worker and other parents who may be facing similar issues. Parents can participate in a programme of adult learning or simply use the time to relax and have some respite from often very demanding 24 hour care.