Carer support: Gold Standard 6

Special rules apply to those with terminal illness for fast-tracking Attendance Allowance claims to support home care. For patients whose prognosis is considered to be six months or less, the GP has to complete a standard form and send it to the local Benefits Agency office. Many informal carers also feel isolated, particularly after the patient’s death, when suddenly must sources of support are withdrawn. The Griffiths Report highlighted the importance of general practice in providing support for carers, and the National Strategy for Carers formally recognised that for many carers the most important initial point of contact is with their GP or other member of the primary healthcare team (PHCT). Support is generated through the PHCT meetings, individual support and through the significant event analysis reflecting on a team’s performance. Witnessing the deterioration of family members may be distressing and children may need particular support and counselling.