Mersey Care retains highest ranking for Triangle of Care

Mersey Care has retained the highest possible ranking for its Triangle of Care, a framework that promotes a partnership between the individual receiving care, their carer, and healthcare professionals.

The Trust has been awarded a 2-star rating in the Triangle of Care Engagement Standard following a recent review of its services, which represents the national engagement standard in mental health for the engagement and support of carers.

The Triangle of Care is based on six key principles, set out by the Carer's Trust, which health and care providers can use to include and support unpaid carers, staff and those receiving care. To qualify for a 2-star rating, Mersey Care must ensure:

• 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.

The Carer's Trust gave special recognition to Mersey Care's development of its Carer's Pathways and Carer's Passport, which includes a partnership agreement between hospital staff and the carer as to their involvement in care provision, discussions and emotional support for the patient during their stay in hospital.

The ranking is also recognition of teams and services within the Trust committing to the inclusion of carers at a practical day-to-day level.