Are you looking after someone when you are not at work? If this is you, then you could be a carer.
You may not identify yourself as a carer – you may see yourself as a partner, sister, brother or friend, and this relationship will not change. However in recognising yourself as a carer, this entitles you to certain rights and access to information and support, specifically for you as a carer that may assist you in your caring role. This may also be helpful for the person you care for.
The NHS Scotland Special Leave policy defines a Carer as ‘someone who has responsibility for a family member, partner, friend, or another individual who relies on the employee.’
Many carers say they do have a good balance between caring and being able to do other things in life. However for some, trying to balance working life and caring can be stressful and can affect health and wellbeing.
“Research tells us that it is important to understand how caring can have an impact on wellbeing and to ensure that appropriate supports are put in place to maintain the health and wellbeing of the carer.”
We understand that it can be difficult at times to balance working life and being a carer. For this reason, we want to recognise and value our staff who are carers and raise awareness of the help and support that is available.
Help and Support
If you do look after someone, support is at hand. This includes supportive Once for Scotland NHS Scotland Policies and local community-based services dedicated to carers. Even if you do not need this help and support just now, it is good to know there are services out there should you need this in the future.
In addition, we have our Carer Leave Guide and NHSGGC Carer Passport, which provide additional support for staff at work.
The Carer Leave Guide brings all key information together in one place, helping you understand:
- What types of leave are available
- What is considered planned versus unforeseen carer leave
- What to do if a request for leave is refused
- Where to find further support
The new NHSGGC Carer Passport provides a voluntary, supportive framework to guide conversations with managers around caring responsibilities. It allows carers to:
- Share information about their caring responsibilities outside of work (at a level they are comfortable with)
- Explain how caring responsibilities may affect work
- Explore support options such as flexible working, planned or unplanned carer leave, or wellbeing support
- Record agreed adjustments and review them regularly
- Ensure continuity of support if a manager changes
You can find out more information on further support available, please visit our dedicated NHSGGC Carers page.
Carers Manager Information and Guidance
NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde Policies
- NHS Scotland Special Leave Policy, and the associated Employee Guide
- NHS Scotland Flexible Work Pattern Policy
- For further advice on HR policies, contact the Human Resources Support and Advice Unit
Local Carer Support Services
There are dedicated support services across Greater Glasgow and Clyde area and further afield. These services provide practical and emotional support for you as a carer and they understand what it means to be a carer. The support these services provide can also help the person you look after.
What do carer support services provide?
- Practical information for you. They will let you know about your rights as a carer and what help and support is available for you.
- Emotional support and a listening ear for you.
- Access to training that will support you in your role as a carer.
- Information about financial support that may be available for you or for the person you look after.
- Information about how to access short breaks from providing care.
Click on the Carer Contact Information webpage to find the contact information for services within your area.
Health, Wellbeing and Wider Support
There is a dedicated Staff Health page which provides information and support for staff on a range of health topics and factors that can impact on our health, all in one site.
You can also drop-in, call or email the Support & Information Service. Find out more on the Support and Information Services webpage.
The Spiritual Care team can also provide confidential, compassionate, inclusive, non-judgemental, person-centred spiritual, emotional and bereavement care and support. You’ll find out more information on the Spiritual Care team webpage.
Support for Staff with Money Worries
In the current economic climate, many staff are experiencing money and debt problems, which can increase personal stress. NHSGGC has a number of resources to support staff.
Please visit the All About Money page for more information on managing your money.
Other sources of information:
Childcare Voucher Scheme
Staff are able to join the Tax-Free Childcare Scheme (TFC) via Childcare Choices.
Information relating to the former childcare scheme can be accessed at Fideliti Childcare Vouchers