Wiltshire’s eligible unpaid carers will be able to receive PPE following updated government guidance published on Friday (5 February).
Wiltshire Council is working closely with charity Carer Support Wiltshire to ensure unpaid carers receive the PPE they need to keep those they care for and themselves safe. Carers can request PPE if they care for or go into the home of someone they don’t live with to provide care or support.
Carers can ring Carer Support Wiltshire on 01380 908008 who will provide advice and arrange for delivery of the PPE complete with instructions on how to use it and dispose of it. If you are a carer and not currently registered with Carer Support Wiltshire, we encourage you to call them and talk through whether you may be eligible for PPE and find out about other support services they offer.
A carer is anyone who cares, unpaid, for a family member or friend who could not always manage without their support. They might look after someone with a physical disability, long term health condition, mental health issue or a problem with substance misuse.
Cllr Simon Jacobs, Cabinet Member for Adult Social Care, Public Heath and Protection said: “Our unpaid carers are our unsung heroes doing an amazing job for those needing care. Now, following the government announcement we are working with Carer Support Wiltshire to ensure eligible carers receive the PPE packs.”
Judy Walker, Chief Executive, Carer Support Wiltshire said: “We’re pleased the government is recognising and supporting the tens of thousands of unpaid carers in Wiltshire who are caring for vulnerable members of our society. They have suffered a lot of anxiety and worry and gone to great lengths to keep their loved ones safe since the start of the pandemic. They have been truly amazing.
“Giving unpaid carers who are are providing care to someone outside of their household access to PPE in line with paid carers will reduce the risk of the virus being transmitted to someone who is vulnerable.”
Carer Support Wiltshire has further details on their website www.carersupportwiltshire.co.uk/news/coronavirus-faq-for-carers/. The CSW helpline is 01380 908008 and is available Monday – Thursday 9.00am – 4.30pm; Friday 9.00am – 4.00pm.
