Celebrating Carer Friendly GP Practices in Dorset
Every two months, Forward Carers meets with NHS Carers Leads from Participation Teams to share what we’re hearing from Carers, reflect on the support being provided by surgeries to keep improving how Carers are identified and supported across GP practices and Primary Care Networks (PCNs).
These meetings are an important space to:
- Raise the issues that matter most to Carers right now
- Share what’s working well in local areas
- Celebrate Carer Friendly GP practices making a real difference
- Agree practical actions that help Carers feel recognised, supported and included
And most importantly, they help us make sure Carers’ voices are heard in health settings.
Celebrating Carer Friendly GPs and PCNs
As part of this work, the GP Carers Engagement Facilitator Team has highlighted several GP practices and PCNs for the amazing work they do to support unpaid Carers. A huge congratulations to everyone recognised, your commitment really matters.
Below are a few standout examples, in their own words.
⭐ Littledown Surgery
(Bournemouth East Collaborative Network)
Littledown Surgery was recognised for the compassionate and support offered to bereaved Carers:
“Exemplary service that is offered to bereaved Carers, including calling the Carer when you are notified that a cared-for person has died and signposting them to bereavement support.”
Why this matters:
When caring ends, it can feel like the world changes overnight. A kind call and clear signposting can help bereaved Carers feel seen, supported, and less alone.
⭐ Banks and Bearwood Medical Practice
Banks and Bearwood Medical Practice evidenced how they worked hard to find answers for Carers facing challenges.
“We were very impressed by the Carers Lead’s passion to find the best possible for a Carer, who was facing a challenge shared by many; needing respite care so that they can take a vital break from their caring responsibilities.”
Why this matters:
When Carers face challenges, they sometimes don’t know who to turn to. Carers Leads often have a wealth of knowledge they can share, providing valuable support when most needed and preventing a crisis situation.
⭐ Barcellos Family Practice
Barcellos Family Practice shared how all departments work closely together with regular staff catch ups. All members of staff could highlight any admin improvements that could be made.
“We did a session with all the staff on showing which boxes needed ticking so that all unpaid Carers were registered correctly. Communication is key”
Why this matters:
It is important for a whole team to know how to record the correct information. This leads to the best possible outcomes and support for Carers, ensuring essential information is not missed.
⭐ Milton Abbas Surgery
Milton Abbas Surgery sends out all newly registered Carers a welcome pack with a personal introduction to the surgery. Linking all Carers with their Carers Lead who as Social Prescribers can link Carers with groups and activities to support their wellbeing.
“Milton Abbas Surgery continues to demonstrate excellent practice”.
Why this matters:
It is vital for Carers to know where to go for support and to be reassured that their own wellbeing is vital for them to be able to continue in their caring role.
A special mention to other Carer Friendly practices and PCNs
We also want to recognise the fantastic work happening across many other areas, including:
Orchard House PCN, The Blackmore Vale Partnership, Poole North PCN, Jurassic Coast PCN, Mid-Dorset PCN, Gillingham Medical Practice, The Adam Practice, Central Bournemouth PCN, Two Harbours Healthcare Ltd – Weymouth and Portland PCN, Westbourne Medical Centre.
Thank you for the work you’re doing to support Carers; it really does make a difference.
Your voice matters – tell us what would help YOU
These NHS Participation meetings help us raise Carers’ experiences directly with the people shaping services but we need your input to make sure we’re focusing on what matters most.
We’d love to hear from you:
✅ Does your GP practice know you are a Carer?
✅ Have you had a good experience you’d like to share?