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Published byAllen Little Modified over 9 years ago
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Policy shift to community- based care will produce many “informal”carers. “Carers” is a term that may have limitations Words impute personal characteristics/motivatio ns that may not reflect reality Words impute personal characteristics/motivatio ns that may not reflect reality
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Key Areas No formal recognition of carers rights Policy documents rarely turn into meaningful action on changes
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The assumption of clear agreements and supportive relationships between carer and service user The “noble” carer acting disinterestedly in a caring community Stigma attaching to relatives and friends
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Often the exploding of the myth of symbiosis occurs during disputes between parties under mental health legislation Increasing emphasis on human rights (Storck vs. Germany ECHR 2005; JT vs UK ECHR 2000)
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Want to do what’s “best” for the person Caught between rock and a hard place Would welcome an alternative decision- maker in difficult and emotionally upsetting circumstances
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“gatekeepers” to specialist services Advocates Decision makers Supports –physical, emotional etc. Managing risk at home and in the community Multiple roles= inevitable conflicts
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Carers are essential in cost-effective community care In-patient bed costs? Guesstimates? Savings on medication Carers saving UK economy 57 billion (carers UK 2006)
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Hobson’s Choice? Willingness is assumed Biologically programmed? Legal guardian? Moral, financial, practical supports? Caring for individuals that the community rejects
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Self-sacrifice –Why? Saccarine rhetoric abounds (expert carer) Ambivalent feelings rarely acknowledged Home is where the carer is Competing philosophies Exploitation – absense of choice
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No training exists for this role Internal and external resources Partner capacity and conflict Life outside of the designated role Familial ideology
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Only 24% felt that staff treated them with respect Isolation 93% felt emotional health suffered Information, housing, advocacy, meaningful activities, alternative therapies, support for themselves, inclusion in decisions.
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RespiteInformationDignityRespect Active participation Rights
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Clear routes Contact numbers Challenging the myths- e.g. Identity of interest Independent living for all Reality of modern life
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