9 June, 2014

There are millions of carers across the country and they deserve recognition and support. Right now, during Carers Week, it’s time to spread the word and shine a spotlight on carers – because of what they do for others, and the personal sacrifice and cost this entails.

Carers are close to our hearts here at Amazon. For the past year we’ve been working on a campaign with Carers in Hertfordshire, a brilliant charity that provides information, advice and support; enables carers to participate in service planning; and provides a voice for people in a caring role.

Engaging GPs

We’ve been working together to engage GPs, who are ideally placed to identify and refer carers, but who tend only to register low numbers.

With huge changes in the health system and different priorities within CCGs, it isn’t easy to reach GPs and to have an impact. But during the first year of the campaign the number of GP referrals to Carers in Hertfordshire has risen from 232 to 736, far exceeding the target of 500.

The key to success

A number of factors combined to make the campaign a success. Nominated Carer Champions who were trained and supported by Carers in Hertfordshire. Regular prompts and updates. And a properly thought-through and tested set of materials, tailored for practice staff and for carers themselves.

Find out more about the campaign here.