The Triangle of Care A therapeutic alliance between service user, staff member and carer

1. The Triangle of Care A therapeutic alliance between service user, staff member and carer that promotes safety, supports recovery and sustains wellbeing.

2. 6 key elements (standards) to achieving Triangle of Care: • Carers and the essential role they play are identified at first contact or as soon as possible thereafter. • Staff are ‘carer aware’ and trained in carer engagement strategies. • Policy and practice protocols re: confidentiality and sharing information, are in place. • Defined post(s) responsible for Carers are in place. • A carer introduction to the service is available, with a relevant range of information across the care pathway. • A range of carer support services is available (Adapted from the Carers Trust (2013) pg.3)

3. Key standard 1Carers and the essential role they play are identified at first contact or as soon as possible thereafter: • Carers or most significant person to the service user are identified at assessment/admission process. • Essential information about the carers circumstances are routinely recorded. • With service users consent, carers knowledge and views are sought through the assessment and treatment process.

4. Key standard 2Staff are ‘carer aware’ and trained in carer engagement strategies: • What is a ‘carer’? (ToC postcards) • Carers able to give and receive information important to service users treatment. • Carers have a wealth of knowledge about the service user. • “Carers want access to help when the person they care for is ill. They want information, practical advice, emotional support.” Professor Louis Appleby (DOH, 2004) • Many Carers do not realise that they have rights to both information and support. (Care Act 2014, implemented April 2015)

5. Key standard 3Policy and Practice Protocols re: confidentiality and sharing information are in place • Guidelines on confidentiality and for sharing information- a three-way process between service users, carers and professionals. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wJkR0I4QCzA • Shared consent forms and protocols. (SystmOne recorded) • Consent regularly updated as and when necessary. • Carers are offered support and general information from teams and Carers Champion if patient does not consent.

6. Key standard 4Defined post(s) responsible for Carers are in place, including: • Service has a dedicated Carers Lead/Champion. • An consistent contact point for Carers. • Reference point for staff to seek information/Carer packs. • Services in place to support Carers internally or support carers to identify appropriate support in Carer’s part of the country.

7. Key standard 5A Carer introduction to the service and staff is available, with relevant range of information across the care pathway, including: • Carer information packs. • Carer Drop In sessions

8. Key standard 6A range of Carer support services is available, including: • Carer information packs detailing supporting agencies. • Assessment of Carers’ needs via signposting to supporting organisations • Group support via local support services • 1:1 support if available for Carers