Planning ahead for an emergency

It is vitally important that you have a contingency plan in place in the event that you become ill and unable to provide care.

• If you don't have one speak to your named worker about getting one in place
• If you already have a plan, check with your Trust that it is still workable due to CORVID 19 (and review periodically)
• Be prepared for the person being cared needing to be admitted to hospital (have a bag packed, include a list of medication, contact details for their carer and family members)
• Know who your named worker is and what arrangements are in place for cover in the event that you are off work
• This plan may help you to record vital information in the event of an emergency.  Keep it up to date and share with your named worker and other family members.  This will help significantly if your family member needs to be hospitalised or in the event that you become unwell.

Crises happen at all the most inconvenient times - late at night, over a weekend etc. etc. At such times it is not easy to respond in the best or most appropriate way.

It is helpful, therefore, to try to think about some of the worst-case scenarios in advance, how you might respond, who you might call on and where to keep this information safe and handy. In this way if things do get difficult you have some sort of plan set up to help you through.  Tips on devising your emergency plan.

Carers UK - Planning for emergencies

You might find this tool useful to help you plan:   Emergency Care Plan

It might also be worth families considering to provide neighbours and friends of the individual with ‘In case of Emergency’ numbers and also place in personal items (e.g. handbag, purse, wallet) of the individual.  This is particularly useful for people with dementia who may try to go out for exercise but become displaced or confused.

 

 Telephone crisis helplines – 24 hour services

Lifeline (0808 808 8000) – 24 hour Lifeline is the Northern Ireland crisis response helpline service for people who are experiencing distress or despair. No matter what your age or where you live in Northern Ireland, if you are or someone you know is in distress or despair, Lifeline is here to help. http://www.lifelinehelpline.info

The Samaritans (116123) If there is something troubling you, get in touch... We’ve been talking to people about how they feel since 1953. In that time we’ve learned a lot about what helps them through.  We can help you explore your options, understand problems better, or just show you that someone is always prepared to care.  http://www.samaritans.org