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Learning Disability Carer Consultants

Learning Disability Carers Consultants support those who care for an adult with a learning disability.

Bernie Marshall and Majella Gorman aim to keep carers updated on Trust developments, help them to share their views and participate in the planning and delivery of learning disability services.

As carers themselves, both Bernie and Majella have first-hand experience of the challenges faced by those looking after a loved one with a disability. Bernie has over 20 years’ experience in community development and good relations while Majella has worked for the Trust for over 18 years in a range of roles including Carers Co-ordinator and Personal Public Involvement.

PPI FOCUS GROUPS AND REACHING OUT TO CARERS

Majella and Bernie have been writing to carers to introduce themselves and make sure their contact details are up to date. They would love to hear from any carers who want to stay updated on Trust developments or that they can support in any way.

Majella Gorman

Bernie Marshall

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

A carers ID card is a physical card that comes in the shape of a standard credit card. It provides access to a variety of different features, tools and services but it’s main purpose is to help you identify yourself as a carer. You can use it to inform others, such as shops or attractions, that you look after someone.  The card is for anyone that looks after, cares or supports someone (including those receiving carers allowance).

The card fee is £8 for 2-years membership.

gatactiveabc Carers Card

Following a successful pilot scheme of the getactiveabc carers card, led by the council and the Southern Health and Social Care Trust, eligible caregivers will receive 20% discount to normal membership fees providing access to gym, swimming pools, classes in all centres, watersports and footgolf at Craigavon Golf and Ski Centre!

The getactiveabc carers card is open to any ABC borough carer of an adult or child who uses the Southern Trust’s Learning Disability and Fostering services.

For further information on the getactiveabc carers membership, please email Bernie Marshall or Majella Gorman on ald.carerteam@southerntrust.hscni.net

Supporting family carers – planning for the future

The Southern Health and Social Care Trust has teamed up with Ulster University to consider how they can support family carers of adults with a learning disability.

People with a learning disability are living longer, most with a family carer. Northern Ireland has a higher proportion of people with a learning disability living at home and being cared for by family than anywhere else in the UK.

There are over 1800 unpaid carers of adults with a learning disability living in the Southern Trust.

The Trust commissioned Ulster University to undertake a research project to explore the needs of family carers. This included focus groups and a survey with family carers and co-production workshops with carers and other statutory and voluntary partners to inform the development of a community model.

The research clearly shows that there is an ageing population of people with learning disabilities with complex needs in the Southern area, being cared for by an even older population of family carers with their own needs. It also highlights a need for better support and training opportunities for carers and siblings.

Read More

Final Report

Contacts

Majella Gorman, Carer Consultant Learning Disability

Drumcashel House

2A Rathfriland Road

Newry

BT34 1HU

Call us07557858749
Email usMajella.Gorman@southerntrust.hscni.net

Bernadette Marshall, Carer Consultant Learning Disability

Eden Centre

Portadown

 

 

Call us07557819172
Email usBernadette.Marshall@southerntrust.hscni.ne

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