Carer Involvement

How can you get involved?

The Trust actively encourages involvement from carers and service users in the running of the Trust and the development of services. Here are some of the ways in which you can get involved:

Joining the Trust's Carers' Council
Being a member of one of our committees, steering groups or project teams
Sitting on interview panels for new staff or for promotions
Being a member of the Trust
Being a governor of the Trust

We are pleased to hear from anyone who is or has been an in-patient or out-patient within the last four years. We are particularly keen to hear from young people, elderly and disabled people and people from ethnic minorities.

Events/Groups to join:

Dementia Focus Group

This bi-monthly group provides an opportunity for carers, service users and health professionals to discuss dementia issues and local research developments, to network with other carers and representatives from voluntary organizations, such as the Alzheimer's Society and Norfolk Link, and to make a contribution to shaping the way forward to a dementia centre of excellence. Meeting dates for 2010 are 7 April, 2 June, 4 August, 6 October and 1 December. For further details, please telephone 01603 421686.

Hellesdon Hospital Carers Group

The group meets weekly in the evenings. This group provides mutual support for people who are in similar circumstances. People can help each other by suggesting ways to deal with issues relating to caring. For further details, please telephone 01603 421934.

Research and Development Service User Group

The group meets bi-monthly. It provides an opportunity for carers and service users to give their views on current mental health research related issues. Next meeting on Thursday 18 March in the Eaton Room at Hellesdon Hospital. For further details, please telephone 01603 421552.

Suffolk Family Carers

Please check website for more information.

Information from Judith Farmer