Wigan's unsung army of carers are able to gain access to a new passport. Called the 'Who I Am' passport, it won't get you out the country, but it will help you get the help and advice to be able to carry on caring.
What is it?
The 'Who I Am' passport enables you to tell health care staff about the person you care for and inform them about any information that you think is important and about any help they may need in hospital or respite care. The passport gives you the opportunity to inform staff to ensure the right help is given.
How does it work?
You can write information, comments and suggestions about the needs of the person you care for in three sections. There is a red section for 'must know' information, an amber section for 'important' information and a green section for 'helpful' information.
Amanda Allinson, Carers Hospital Support Worker, said "All NHS health professionals across the borough of Wigan recognise that many of their patients, visitors and a number of their staff have caring responsibilities. The passport is designed to assist health care staff in identifying carers and enable them to gain accurate information on the patient. It also enables carers to record important details of the person they look after, ensuring the right help is given. The 'Who I Am' passport is not expected to last 10 years like a British passport, as it is recognised that needs change, but it is a snapshot of the patient at the time".
How can I get a passport?
If you are registered with the Carers Support Team, complete the request form and return it to the Carers Support Team. Your passport will then be posted to you with a factsheet and guidance notes to help you complete it. If you would like further information, please contact the Carers Support Team.
