We know that carers play a vital role in supporting patients. If you look after a family member, friend or neighbour who would struggle without your help, we are here to support you while they are in hospital.
Do you help someone with daily tasks such as personal care, taking medication, preparing meals, shopping, keeping in touch with others, or offering emotional support? If so, you are a carer, and the information you can share about the person you care for is important to us.
Please tell the ward staff if you are the patient’s main carer. They will give you a carer’s pack, which includes advice, support and details of available services.
We value your knowledge and experience. Our aim is to work with you so we can give the best care to the person you support.
On this page
Key contacts
Chelsie Nice, lead for dementia and delirium: 01284 712859
Maggie Woodhouse, dementia practitioner and trainer: 01284 713847
Jennie Brett-Collins, family carer support worker: 07717 785844
Suffolk Family Carers hub: 01473 835477 or visit the Suffolk Family Carers website.
Support for young carers
Young Carers are aged 5–13, and Young Adult Carers are aged 14–25. We understand that caring for someone can be rewarding, but it can also be challenging — especially when you are still at school, college or university.
We are here to help. You can register with Suffolk Family Carers to get advice, guidance and support for yourself, or on behalf of a young carer.
At West Suffolk NHS Foundation Trust, we want young carers to feel supported when they come to hospital — whether you are here to help someone you care for, or you are receiving care yourself. If you are a young carer, please speak to the ward nursing staff. They can give you a Family Carer Pack, which includes helpful information and support.
Young carers visiting someone in hospital can receive:
- A family carer badge, which gives access to discounted meals at the Time Out restaurant (first floor of West Suffolk Hospital).
- Flexible visiting hours if needed — speak to the nurse in charge.
- Discounted daily parking rates for Young Adult Carers.
Accessibility
Equality and inclusion is at the heart of our continued commitment to become the very best environment for receiving healthcare. Please take a look at our accessibility information to learn more.