Carers Staff Network
Welcome!
Thank you for taking an interest in the DCHS Carers Staff Network. Our vision is to ensure unpaid Carers are recognised, valued and supported to bring their best selves to work.
Our network welcomes staff who are working Carers or are interested in championing awareness for working Carers in DCHS.
Launch of the Carers' Network
On 11th June, our network was officially launched! Jim Austin, the chief executive, signed the Carers pledge alongside our chair of the network, Jemma Walker.
Jemma Walker - My name is Jemma Walker, Integrated Community Team Lead for the ARCH Nursing Teams since September 2024, and a parent Carer to my son George, who has Down Syndrome, Autism, severe learning disabilities, and complex medical needs.
With 30 years of NHS experience, I've faced challenges balancing career and caregiving. I joined the NHS in 1994 and completed ODP training in 1997. After maternity leave, childcare difficulties led me to work night shifts due to George's Down Syndrome diagnosis.
George struggled with his health in his early years. This put a strain on myself as I was often left feeling torn between coming and doing the job I love or letting my son down. On many occasions, I was praying he would remain well enough during the night so once I finished work in the morning, I could take him to A and E. If I did have to phone in, I always felt so guilty, like I had let the team down. I was stuck between a rock and a hard place!
In September 2024, I joined DCHS and became the chair of the Carers Staff Network. My focus is on making policies workable for Carers while supporting Carers Champions to raise awareness and signpost Carers to necessary resources. As chair, I've trained champions and reviewed policies for better support. Recently, I presented the Carers Act 2024 to MP Wendy Chamberlain in parliament. I'm committed to supporting Carers within DCHS and look forward to collaborating with others.
- Monday 30th June (12:30 - 14:00)
- Tuesday 12th August (12:30 - 14:00)
- Wednesday 24th September (12:30 - 14:00)
- Thursday 6th November (12:30 - 14:00)
- Friday 19th December (12:30 - 14:00)
Microsoft teams invites should be sent out to you via email if you are part of the Carers Network teams' channel. If you are not part of the channel, please either complete the interest form under the section 'Becoming a Carers Champion' or email us on dchst.carersnetwork@nhs.net.
Information coming soon
Derbyshire
Derbyshire All Age Carers Support Service (DAACSS)
Derbyshire Carers Association provides support to unpaid Carers in Derbyshire on behalf of health and social care. They offer information and advice, conduct Carer assessments and support planning, and provide peer support and social activities for Carers across the county.
You can email: info@derbyshirecarers.co.uk or telephone: 01773 833833 for help and advice.
Mobilise - online support for unpaid Carers
Mobilise is an online service offering help and support for unpaid Carers in Derbyshire. This includes information, advice, and the opportunity to connect with other Carers. If you prefer private discussions about your caring role, Mobilise offers individual support from their team members via phone or video call, available from 8am to 10pm, seven days a week.
Derby City
Universal Carers
Our information and advice helpline, answered by compassionate, knowledgeable, and fully trained staff, operates Mon-Fri, 09:00-17:00, excluding public holidays. The helpline also has an out-of-hours answerphone service where you can leave messages for follow-up contact. Call us on 01332 228 777.
Events
To register interest for events or inquire about our event schedule, please email: carers-events@citizensadvicemidmercia.org.uk
Nottinghamshire
Their aim is to make the lives of family Carers easier, less lonely, and less frustrating. To discuss your needs as a Carer, contact the Carers Hub Service. You can reach the Carers Hub Service at 0808 802 1777 or WhatsApp/Text at 07814678460. You can also visit the Carers Hub Service or email carershubinfo@carersfederation.co.uk.
Chesterfield
Derbyshire All Age Carers Support Service (DAACSS) conducts Carer assessments for us. You can request an assessment by emailing info@derbyshirecarers.co.uk, calling 01773 833833, or filling out the contact form on their website.
National carers charities
Derbyshire Dementia Support Service
If you are a Carer for someone with dementia, Derbyshire Dementia Support Service provides support for both you and your family members through different stages of dementia. The service offers various groups for people affected by memory loss or dementia. No official diagnosis or specific age is required to receive advice and support. Carers supporting individuals living with dementia can be referred for support independently. For additional help, contact the Alzheimer's Society National Dementia Helpline at 0300 222 1122. This confidential helpline is available for Carers, individuals with dementia, and their friends and families.
Mobilise provides online support aimed at easing the lives of Carers, making them less lonely and frustrating. Their range of free online support includes information, advice, and opportunities to connect with other Carers through a closed Facebook group or daily virtual 'cuppas.' Visit www.mobiliseonline.co.uk for more information.
Advocacy – In situations where you feel unheard or believe your concerns are not taken seriously, an independent advocate can offer support during decision-making processes that may affect your health or the health of the person you care for. In Derbyshire, advocacy is provided by Cloverleaf Advocacy. Contact them at 01924 454875 or email referrals@cloverleaf-advocacy.co.uk. More details are available at www.cloverleaf-advocacy.co.uk/areas/derbyshire.
advice@carersuk.orgwww.carersuk.org
Mental Health Carers Community: Chesterfield & North Derbyshire meets on the last Wednesday of every month from 10am-1pm at Chesterfield Fire Station, Spire Walk Business Park, Braidwood Way, Chesterfield, S40 2WH (located behind B&Q). New Carers are welcome; call 07730 526 219 or email jose.rodgers@nhs.net.
The Carers Direct helpline (part of Carers UK) offers confidential information and guidance on various topics. Call 0300 123 1053 or email queries to helpline advisers.
Age UK has a free advice line at 0800 678 1602, providing assistance on health, housing, and more. The advice line is available 365 days a year, from 8am to 7pm.
Young Minds Parents Helpline at 0808 802 5544 offers advice, emotional support, and signposting for children and young people up to age 25.
Sidekick is a confidential helpline for young Carers aged 13-18 in the UK. Visit https://sidekick.actionforchildren.org.uk/ or text 07888 868 059. You can also email sidekick@actionforchildren.org.uk. Sidekick provides confidential support without judgment.
NHS Social Care and Support Guide – For details on social care support for those needing day-to-day living assistance due to illness or disability, visit www.nhs.uk/conditions/social-care-and-support-guide/help-from-social-services-and-charities/helplines-and-forums.
The Carers champion will play a key role in supporting and advocating for employees who have caring responsibilities. They will ensure that Carers in the workplace are aware of the support and advice available both within the workplace and from external organisations. The champion will also work proactively to identify Carers in the workforce and facilitate access to relevant resources, support networks, and initiatives.
If you are interested in becoming a Carers champion please complete the form below.