Letter to all Barnet practices from Communities, Adults & Health Directorate London Borough of Barnet

Dear Colleague,

Carers have an integral role in the Barnet community, and to our health and social care system.  Carers make an invaluable contribution, and we know that without carers, many people living and working in our communities would not be able to continue to do so. 

Evidence shows that carers have poorer health outcomes than the non-carer population, but that early identification of carers can improve health and wellbeing. We know that not all carers would consider themselves to be carers, so it is important for us to be proactive in identifying and offering support to carers. 

We have a clear vision for working with carers and young carers, as reflected in our Carers and Young Carers Strategy, and a strong local offer led by our commissioned provider Barnet Carers Centre. All resources can be found here:  Think Carer - Barnet Carers

In Barnet we Think Carer and encourage services and partners to identify carers in order to help support better health and wellbeing. As a partnership, we must work together to do our duty to identify carers who need our help early and ensure they are offered the right support. 

With your help, we can make sure every carer is seen, heard and accessing the support they need to continue to provide care, look after themselves and access support when needed. 

Dawn Wakeling
Executive Director, Communities,
Adults and Health
London Borough of Barnet

Martin Quilter
Carer Representative
Carers Engagement Board

Mike Rich
Chief Executive
Barnet Carers