Rotherham Carers Forum is the only carers’ group in Rotherham that captures the true voice of unpaid carers. As an independent organisation, it is able to provide its own response as a critical friend, offering feedback to the local authority and other service providers.
One recent example involved inviting carers to give feedback on the development of the new Carer App. This gave them the opportunity to highlight what they felt was important to include within the app and to voice what should be prioritised as it moves toward full development and launch.
The group offers a listening ear to any carer who attends with an issue. Often, peer support and shared experiences help to signpost what steps the individual should take next. If an issue turns out to be affecting multiple carers, a representative from the relevant organisation is invited to the next meeting, with the aim of progressing the issue and contributing feedback to help improve services in Rotherham.
Another example of the group’s advocacy involved a carer whose disabled daughter was poorly treated during a train journey. The group produced an Issue Log and, after identifying the appropriate contact, sent the matter to the South Yorkshire Mayor, Oliver Coppard. He personally followed up, contacted those responsible and sent a detailed response outlining the progress made. This process empowered the carer and reassured her that her concerns had been heard in the right place.
Rotherham Carers Forum works alongside other carer groups and is a partner in The Borough That Cares, an umbrella organisation for all service providers and support groups for unpaid carers in Rotherham. The group is facilitated by the local authority, with Councillor Marnie Harvard as Chair.
Members are actively involved in planning future meetings and are consulted on who should be invited as guest speakers. Having been established for well over ten years, the group has built a strong network of contacts who provide up-to-date information and advice.
As well as offering a monthly space for carers to socialise, share stories and support each other, the group also maintains a strong and active social media presence to keep members informed and connected.
The group’s next meeting is on Thursday 9th October at Rotherham Town Hall. The meeting starts at 12.00pm and all unpaid carers of adults are welcome for an informal chat, a cuppa and some information. A light lunch is available but requires booking; to book, and for more information, visit http://www.rotherhamcarersforum.org.uk.