To mark Carers Week 2025, Cygnet is demonstrating our ongoing commitment to improve the experience of friends and family of individuals with mental health needs and learning disabilities, by launching our revised Carer, Family and Friends Charter.
The updated pledge, co-produced by members of the Cygnet Carers Network and members of the Cygnet Senior Management Team, builds on the foundations of our first charter which was published in 2023.
Shane Mills, Cygnet’s Director of Nursing, said: “I’m delighted to share Cygnet’s latest Carer, Family and Friends Charter. This is part of our ongoing commitment to carers to recognise and value the work they do. We’ve worked with our Carer Ambassadors and Carer Network to reflect their priorities and needs.
“We’ve listened to what they’ve told us, and there’s now an even greater emphasis on their involvement in the service we provide. We’re also highlighting the role of carer advocacy and our Cygnet Advice Liaison Service (CALS), which provides additional support for carers.
“The purpose of our Carer, Family and Friends Charter is to make a positive difference in the lives of the individuals we care for, their loved ones and all those who work with us.
“The Cygnet Carer Charter recognises the important role that carers, friends and family play in the recovery and wellbeing of the people who use our Health and Social Care services.
“Our pledge shows our commitment to carers who we want to feel valued and recognised. Our Carer Charter sets out how the Cygnet will involve and support carers across its services.
“Cygnet’s overall aim is to continue to find ways of working with carers, families and friends so they feel informed and engaged in the care of the service user they support as much as possible.”
The Charter sets out four main priorities on how we will work with carers moving forwards. These are:
- Identify Carers
- Recognise Carers
- Inform and Involve Carers
- Guide and Support Carers
