Carers Reference Group

The Carers Reference Group are a friendly group who regularly come together to discuss the services available for the informal and unpaid carers of people living in Bournemouth, Christchurch, and Poole (BCP area). They represent their views to inform local NHS and social care organisations. They are a mix of carers, former carers and health and social care professionals and welcome more members of any age to join them.

Their aim is to act as a voice for all informal and unpaid carers - including those who are eligible for Carers Allowance - by highlighting their needs and challenges. They usually meet monthly to: 

• share experiences of being an informal or unpaid carer
• review local service provision for carers
• influence the planning, funding, and delivery of carers support services locally
• help local health and social care organisations develop good practice in supporting carers. 

Group members have been involved with initiatives such as hospital discharge and admission processes, adult social care recruitment interviews, awarding contracts to support organisations and designing how support services work. Members are free to be involved as much or as little as they want, or as their caring commitments allow. 

If you would like to get involved, please contact the CRISP Carer Support Service on Tel: 01202 128787 or Email: carersupport@bcpcouncil.gov.uk