Carers Staff Network

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.

Cath Hulme - My name is Cath Hulme and have worked for DCHS for the last 18 years as a Health Visitor and subsequently as a Locality Manager in Children’s Services for the last 5 years. During my role as a manager, I have had a number of staff who have extra caring responsibilities for children with additional needs, parents and family members. I have seen first hand the anguish this can cause, trying to juggle the two. I have also seen this within my family and know the stress this can cause, leading to sickness and burnout of the Carer. I pledged to support my team to find ways in which we could support their caring responsibilities around work to enable them to feel less stressed and remain in work which is sometimes the only place the Carer feels like ‘them’ and gives them time away from being a Carer.

Caring responsibilities, whether for children, elderly parents, or other dependents, adds a significant layer of complexity to the lives of many staff. As a manager, it is crucial to recognise and support team members who juggle these responsibilities alongside their professional roles.

Creating a culture that values and supports employees with caregiving responsibilities requires ongoing commitment and support and I am delighted to join the DCHS Staff Carers Network to help advocate for our staff.

Alison Musk

I have worked in DCHS since 2009 in an admin capacity for the Countywide Outpatient Physio/MSK/OT team. I am based at Clay Cross hospital (room 133), Mon – Fri 8.30am to 2.30pm. I am a working Carer myself so have empathy with others who have a caring role. If you are feeling overwhelmed in your caring role, please get in touch so that I can signpost you onto the resources/support that is available for you. “One person caring about another represent life’s greatest value.” - Jim Rohn.

Rosey Perrin

I am the administrator for the staff network and although am not a Carer myself, I am keen to support working Carers.I have worked in DCHS for 3 years now and I work very closely with Jemma every day in my regular admin role as she is my team lead! I’m based between Alfreton, Heanor and Ripley working Mon-Fri 8AM-4PM. You can contact me by email on rosey.perrin@nhs.net.

Sarah Lee

My name is Sarah, I am a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (School Nurse) and work in the

High Peak & Dales Locality.

A Carers’ Champion with lived experience as a parent of four, two of whom have extra care needs. I am dedicated to encouraging a supportive and compassionate workplace - Sarah.lee89@nhs.net

Yazmin Kang

I am an Organisational Effectiveness Assistant working within the Staff Wellbeing Team. I am also a parent/carer to three wonderful boys. As a working carer myself, I understand the challenges that come with juggling work and caregiving responsibilities. I am passionate about supporting my colleagues and am always eager to signpost the resources and support available! Feel free to contact me anytime on y.kang@nhs.net.

Yvonne Cohen

I’m Yvonne, or Vonny. I work full-time here at DCHS – currently as Research Governance Officer with the Research & Innovation Team, and previously with the Leadership Development Team.  My parents live with me, which gives me lived caring experience realting to the challenges that can come with getting older, particularly around health and frailty, and navigating our increasingly digital world.  I strongly believe in the benefits of compassion, kindness and civility in the workplace. Please feel free to contact me at yvonne.cohen@nhs.net

Janey Smith

I am the lead admin for the Erewash Community Teams. I am not a working Carer myself but wanted to be a champion to help my colleagues who are. I am based between Ilkeston and Long Eaton and my working hours are 8-4pm Mon-Fri. Contact me on janey.smith1@nhs.net anytime.

Kirstin Johnson

I am a Specialist Community Public Health Nurse (formally school nurse) in Chesterfield. I am a lone parent to 2 children, Freddie and Abigail. Freddie, my youngest, has a diagnosis of Autism and ADHD and struggles to engage in education. Freddie needs continuous support with many aspects of his day to day living. 

I am passionate about supporting and advocating for other unpaid carers working within the Trust. I am based at Brimington, Chesterfield, and you can contact me via email at kirstin.johnson3@nhs.net.

Nicola Heathcote

I work in Children’s Community 0-19 Services and I’m the Locality Manager for High Peaks, North Dales and Glossop.

I am a Registered Nurse and Health Visitor by background and I’m the main carer for my Mum who has Alzheimer’s. Many of my colleagues have caring responsibilities whether that’s for children, parents or other family members and it’s really important to support them as much as possible. I work Monday to Friday 9-5 and you can contact me on nicola.heathcote-hems1@nhs.net

Kerry Grace 

I am an Information Support Officer based in Derby City. I chose to join the Carer’s Network after my Mum suffered from declining health. I hope I can use my experience to help others talk about what they are going through, I am also keen to help signpost and support staff where possible. My email address is kerry.grace4@nhs.net you can contact me anytime.

Kelly Webster

I am a Health Visitor based in Swadlincote and a parent carer. Alongside my professional role, my own caring experience gives me a strong understanding of the day‑to‑day challenges of balancing work and family life. As a Carers Network Champion, I am passionate about offering empathy, support, and a listening ear to colleagues across DCHS, helping to create a kind, understanding, and inclusive workplace for all carers

• Tuesday 6th October 2026 12:30 - 2PM
• Wednesday 18th November 2026 12:30 - 2PM

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 Member' or email us on dchst.carersnetwork@nhs.net.

Carers Champion Training 

All training sessions are carried out on Teams and can last up to 3.5 hours. Please see below current training dates.

• Tuesday 15^th September - 1PM
• Thursday 15^th October - 9:30AM

If you would like to become a Carers Champion, please either complete the interest form under the section 'Becoming a Carers Champion' or email us on dchst.carersnetwork@nhs.net.

Managers Training

All training is carried out on Teams and is 1 hour long. Please see below current training dates.

• Monday 14^th September - 2PM

The training helps managers identify staff who are carers and provide practical support and signposting – Managers will learn how to initiate conversations, suggest a carers’ assessment, and introduce tools like the Carers Passport, which records adjustments and support for staff with caring duties.

If you would like to attend one of the above training sessions, please email us on dchst.carersnetwork@nhs.net.

Derbyshire and Derby City

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.

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

• Carers Trust
• Carers UK

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.

Umbrella

We support children and adults aged up to 30 with any additional needs, including physical, sensory, learning and behavioural disabilities. Our services are person centred to meet individual needs.

Anyone can refer a child or young person to Umbrella including families, social workers, teachers and youth workers.

Open Monday to Friday 9.00am to 4.00pm. You can call on 01332 521229.

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.

• Carers Passport
• Carers Passport - Managers Tool
• Derby and Derbyshire Talking Therapies
• Expert Patient or Expert Carer Dementia Programme
• How to state you are a Working Carer on ESR
• DAACSS What's on - August 2026
• Last Days Matter Poster
• Carers Week 2026
• Derby City Carers Poster
• Derby City Carers Poster - Easy Read

My Carer’s Story – Jemma Walker

George was born on 3 January 2000 – a millennium baby. At the time, I was working as a theatre practitioner in paediatric theatres and had been with my NHS organisation since 1994. I loved my job, my colleagues, and most of all, the patients I cared for.

When George was born, he stopped breathing and needed resuscitation. Working in paediatrics and obstetrics, I knew this wasn’t unusual. He spent the night in paediatric intensive care. The next day, the doctor examined him and mentioned slight dysmorphic features, recommending tests for Down’s syndrome. At that moment, my world fell apart. The healthy baby I had dreamed of was gone. Suddenly, I had a child who would always depend on me, with all the health conditions that might come with it. Was his heart okay? His bowels? Would he ever walk, talk, or be toilet trained? And one of my first thoughts: How will I ever go back to work?

Not working wasn’t an option – I had a mortgage and bills. I eventually found a childminder willing to care for George, who needed one-to-one support due to swallowing difficulties. A week before he was due to start, the childminder suddenly died. I had to take unpaid time off before finding another amazing carer.

I felt so alone. All the support groups for children with special needs met during the day when I worked. Eventually, I moved to permanent night shifts – the only option due to childcare availability and my need to work. This meant I was often awake day and night when George was unwell. Those years passed in a blur of stress and sleep deprivation, with many admissions to paediatric intensive care due to pneumonia.

I stayed on nights for 19 years because of George’s care needs. There were challenges along the way. One colleague even said, “You should put him in a home,” simply because I couldn’t work a shift. I often felt like a burden, but the truth is, I have always gone above and beyond for my patients – often at the expense of my own health.

When George was 12, my husband – George’s dad – died from mesothelioma. This hit us hard. Once again, I needed flexibility to care for my son and my dying husband while continuing to work. Work became my sanity – a place where I could be Jemma, not just George’s mum or a soon-to-be widow.

After experiencing so many challenges and a lack of flexibility, I arranged a meeting with the Equality Lead. I knew I wasn’t the only member of staff going through this. I invited Derbyshire Carers to give a talk because I was struggling to get management support. At one point, my mum and a paid carer were helping me care for George. We had a system that worked – often juggling, but we managed. Then my mum and the carer booked the same holiday nine months in advance. I tried to book annual leave but was told no because someone else was already off. I felt like giving up. What choice did I have? George had complex health needs, autism, and severe learning disabilities. The only option was to go off sick – something I never wanted to do.

This experience motivated me to create change. I set up a Carers Network with board support and introduced the Carers Passport, which opens up conversations between carers and managers, helping them understand the caring responsibilities staff have. This avoids repeated conversations and supports flexibility. We built a thriving network, hosted guest speakers, and organised a Carers Day at St George’s Park to celebrate unpaid carers. In May 2023, we achieved the Carers Quality Kitemark – a major achievement. We also changed the carers leave policy, introducing 10 days of leave for non-emergencies, enabling carers to be open and honest and bring their whole selves to work.

I left my previous trust in September 2024 and joined DCHS as an Integrated Community Team Lead for ARCH. I’ve found it far more supportive, but there’s still work to do. I’m now chair of the newly formed Carers Network at DCHS, which is thriving. We’ve hosted Derbyshire Carers and the Employment Engagement Lead for talks. Our meetings include updates and guest speakers, followed by peer support sessions. We’ve trained eight Carers Champions and have more training planned, including manager training to help leaders support working carers.

We have an intranet page with lots of useful information and contact details for charities that carers champions and managers can sign post to.

A recent NHS survey revealed that nearly 50% of staff at DCHS are unpaid carers. That’s half our workforce caring for someone outside of work. It’s vital we get this right. I’m working closely with HR to produce a new carers’ leave policy that is fit for purpose, including options for hospital appointments and flexible hours. A recent survey sent out by DCHS carers network showed that over 50% of staff have taken time off due to carer stress.

My goal is to expand the amazing work DCHS already does and ensure carers can care and work without feeling like a burden. Carers are dedicated, kind, and compassionate people who want to deliver exceptional care – and they deserve support.

Having George 25 years ago was the best thing to happen to me. It made me the determined person I am, he’s changed me and taught me unconditional love, for that I will be forever grateful.

Thank you for reading.

Jemma Walker

I’m Rosey and I’m the administrator for the Carers Staff Network. In the photo is myself, my mum Janey who also works for DCHS, my mama Kath and my great mama Gwen.

My great mama is now 101 and with the support of my mama, she has been able to still live at home. My mama has lived with my great mama for many years now, as she is housebound, and without the love and care my mama gives to my great mama, it would have been likely that she would have had to move into a residential home. The rest of the family also support with mealtimes and food shopping when needed. In recent months, my mama’s sister has retired meaning she has more time to help with the care of my great mama. This in effect has given my mama more down time, as she is 77 herself, she was needing the free time to do what she wanted.

My great mama has always been a big part of the community and enjoyed going to church every Sunday morning. As she is no longer able to attend, last year at Christmas some of the people who still go to her church visited her at home for a carol service where we all sang hymns in her living room. My great mama and the rest of the family really appreciated this as it just shows how valued she is by everyone.

Rebecca Beedie, Deputy head of communications

For the past five years my parents, aged nearly 91 and nearly 92, have relied on me increasingly for support. They live in Somerset where I grew up and so it has meant a lot of travelling from my home in Derby.

Two-and-a-half years ago things came to a new crisis point with their frailty and I moved myself into their spare room as a stop-gap measure to look after them. We still had carers coming in once a day for my dad but mum wasn’t able to look after him as well as herself for the remaining 23 hours a day.

It has crept up on us. Since my mum and dad were in their mid-80s they have required increasing amounts of help with daily living, life admin, hospital appointments, falls out of bed and occasional hospital admissions. They are now totally reliant on help for most things.

I’m lucky to have a job within DCHS which can largely be done remotely and lucky to have a line manager and team colleagues who supported the long-distance arrangement.

We recently reached a new crisis point with my dad whose limited mobility plummeted to zero and he was no longer able to transfer himself from wheelchair to bed. The NHS community team and adult social care were very helpful and after trialling various aids and rapid response support it became apparent that respite care was needed for us all. That was in early April and he is still in a very lovely council-run residential home in Wells and the wheels are in motion for him to remain there. It is not what he wants but it is the only viable option. Mum is frail but can manage on her own with help.

So now I’m back to travelling the M5, seeing my own family again and working out a new routine split between Derby and Somerset. Thanks to DCHS I have been able to carry on working with my caring responsibilities and I’m very grateful for that.

Staff Stories

• Anonymous

Other Stories/Information

• DCHS Podcast - Jemma Walker on championing Carers’ rights
• BBC Make a Difference - Jemma Walker

Our network is a group of staff who may be Carers themselves or are interested in championing awareness for working Carers in DCHS.

If you wish to become a member, please complete the form below by using the link or by scanning the QR code.

Link to form

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 by using the link or scanning the QR code.

Link to Form