Hounslow Council is set to launch a new Adult Carers Service, aiming to provide better support and recognition for unpaid carers in the borough.
The Hounslow Health and Wellbeing Board discussed the new Adult Social Care (ASC) Carers Service model at their meeting on Monday, 14 July 2025, outlining a two-phase plan to enhance support for carers. Phase one is scheduled for completion by September 2025, with phase two expected by January 2026.
The principal aims of the new service are:
- Proactively identify and recognise unpaid carers.
- Offer timely and relevant information and advice through accessible channels, including online, face-to-face, email, print, home visits and telephone.
- Connect carers to local and relevant support services, offering direct referrals when needed.
- Support carers in accessing assessments, the Carers Emergency Card, respite options, setting up LPAs, and applying for benefits, as well as assisting with form filling. The service aims to help carers navigate eligibility criteria for various support services, such as respite care or financial assistance.
- Build ongoing relationships with carers who have more complex needs through regular check-ins.
- Involve carers in the service's development and incorporate their ideas.
- Deliver services in welcoming, relaxed, and social settings.
- Serve as a reliable and trusted point of contact.
The team behind the new service includes Caroline Cronin, Community Information Manager; Harkiran Sandhu, Project Manager; and Carers Advisers Ayeda Zuba, Nadia Atiq, and Rasneet Choudhary.
The new Adult Social Care Carers Service will also collaborate with existing carer support organisations and charities in the borough to avoid duplication of services and maximise impact, connecting carers to local support services with direct referrals where needed, rather than just signposting. According to the Public Reports Pack, in their first month, the Carers Advisers have been actively engaging with the community, attending ASC team meetings, visiting partner organisations, and participating in carer support groups. They also contributed to a successful Carers Week event and ran information tables at West Mid Hospital and the Chiswick PCN Roadshow.
Looking ahead, a timetable of information and social events will be rolled out in July, with full programming expected by August. The team will be available at West Mid Hospital on specified dates starting in August, and a weekly email and WhatsApp updates will advertise events. A Carers Participation Group will also be established to encourage feedback and co-production.
The Carers Pack, featuring new materials and existing publications, will be compiled, and a promotional campaign titled 'My name is…' will run in September to highlight the loss of identity carers often experience. A telephone advice line is set to be operational from September, and a programme of carer training sessions will be developed for early 2026, covering topics such as moving and handling, stress management, and life after caring.
