The visit marked the beginning of what we hope will be a strong and meaningful partnership, bringing together local carer expertise with the carer-focused structures already embedded across Cygnet services.
During the visit, we explored opportunities to work together more closely. At Cygnet, we already draw on lived-experience input through our Carer Ambassadors, and there was a shared enthusiasm for exploring how Derbyshire Carers’ expertise could complement and strengthen this offer.
We were also pleased to discuss a range of additional initiatives offered by Derbyshire Carers, including:
- Call for Carers, a free six-session programme introducing carers to support and services available across Derbyshire
- A research project focused on carers’ experiences of hospital discharge, aimed at improving future practice
Reflecting on the visit, Tina Munro, H-Connect Hospital Liaison Project Worker at Derbyshire Carers, shared:
“After the meeting I came away feeling very excited about working with Cygnet and helping to support carers across Derbyshire. It was lovely to see all the support Cygnet already has in place for carers and I’m really looking forward to supporting the Carer Leads to build their skills and knowledge about carers. I think working with Cygnet will create opportunities for H-connect to expand their practice and show how carer support services can complement the Triangle of Care and bring about positive change for carers.”
We are looking forward to building on this early collaboration and continuing to strengthen how carers are recognised, supported and involved across Cygnet services in Derbyshire.