Carers’ champion speaks out
Relatives of some of our most vulnerable patients are making their voices heard on the wards thanks to the pioneering efforts of a carers’ champion.
John Beevor spoke out about his experience caring for his late wife Pam when she was being treated at The Royal London hospital – and his insight is now driving improvements in how carers are regarded by clinical teams.
Carers are part of the patient journey on several wards, contribute to regular listening circles, have their own respite hub where they can take a break from their responsibilities, and are even eligible for staff discounts in the canteen.
John himself has joined the volunteer team, is advising on changes to the way our wards operate, and getting training – ten years after Pam first went into hospital with vascular problems.
Members of the trust Board were mesmerised by John’s story at this month’s meeting: Adam Sharples, our acting chair, apologised to the 80 year-old but added: "Thank you for giving it to us straight. These are messages we need to hear."
You have an under-used facility at your fingertips
John issued a passionate plea to reform a flawed discharge system in which everyone made unfulfilled promises (that his late wife would be home soon).
"It is important you realise that carers, although not trained and without any official status, are here to help you," he said. "You have an under-used facility at your fingertips. Most carers would love to be more involved in the hospital system, caring for their loved ones."
John’s own role as carer was crucial because Pam (now sadly passed away) developed dementia and couldn’t communicate her needs and wishes. “I knew what she wanted because we had been married for 60 years and I just had to look into her eyes. I was able to calm her down and make sure she was OK,” he said.
"Someone with dementia is confused when they come into hospital. Obviously staff care about their patients, but they don’t always have time for one person, and personnel change with shift patterns. I suggest you involve carers more in decisions by the medical and nursing teams so you have the benefit of our experience."
Simmi Naidu, deputy director of nursing at The Royal London, said the group visiting policy was being revised to take the role of carers and family members into account.
"More than half our patients don’t speak English as a first language, and in some communities the term ‘carer’ can be thought an insult," she said.
"This is because the ability to care for a loved one is not a job but a privilege and blessing. Working with carers like John will ensure that person-centred practice is at the forefront of all that we do.
"We want to normalise the expectation that a carer or family member can come onto the ward and articulate a patient’s needs as part of our package of care."
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