Empowering carers in Bath & North East Somerset with the tools and support they need.
Being a carer is rewarding but can also be challenging. My Caring Role is about understanding your responsibilities, planning for the future, and clearly communicating your caring role so that the person you care for continues to receive support if you are ever unavailable.
I haven't had to use it but it is good to know it is there if needed.
What does completing My Caring Role involve?
Planning for the future
- Identify Emergency Contacts: Decide who could step in to care for your loved one if you’re unavailable. Make sure they are aware of their role and responsibilities.
- Document Care Information: Record essential details such as daily routines, medications, health conditions, and any special requirements your loved one has.
- Share and Communicate: Provide your emergency contacts with this information so they can confidently and safely care for your loved one when needed.
Why does it matter?
- Safety first: Ensure the person you care for is safe at all times, even if you are unexpectedly unavailable.
- Reduce stress: Minimise uncertainty and worry by having a clear plan in place, giving you peace of mind.
- Maintain continuity of care: Ensure that routines, medications, and specific needs are consistently met, even in emergencies.
- Empower your support network: Give family, friends, or emergency contacts the information they need to step in confidently.
- Plan for the future: Preparing ahead helps you manage unexpected changes in your caring role and supports long-term wellbeing for both you and your loved one.
Five things to consider when thinking about your plan
1. Have someone with you when creating your plan.
Planning for emergencies can be a daunting task. Ask someone to go through the process with you and to discuss your options. Our team are there to help.
2. What should you include in your plan?
It is essential to include detailed information that will enable an emergency contact to step into your shoes. This should include medical information, care instructions, daily routines and preferences.
3. What important information do people need to know?
Note any significant points that the reader of your plan will need to be aware of. It could be the medication information of the person you care for or a pet that would need to be looked after.
4. Your biggest worries
Consider what worries you most in the event of an emergency and what could help you overcome your concerns. Ensure you include all the vital contact and access information - for example, a key safe code for your home.
5. Make your plan known
You have a plan – great! Now think about how someone can access it if an emergency happened. Without the people around you knowing where it is, the plan is ineffective. This is a great opportunity to share your thoughts and feelings with others and so they know exactly how you’d like them to handle an emergency situation.
Once you have completed your plan, we will send you 'My Caring Role' stickers so you can communicate your emergency contact number.
We advise that you place these stickers in visible location such as a fridge, mobile phone or in your wallet/purse.
Help put your mind at ease and complete your 'My Caring Role' plan today.
Log in to your online account area to complete your plan or alternatively contact our Freephone Support Line (Mon - Fri, 9am - 1pm) for further information.