Local GP Practice Achieves Carer Friendly GP Practice Status After Identifying 259 Hidden Carers

Hillside Practice is proudly celebrating its newly awarded Carer Friendly GP Practice Status, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to recognising and supporting unpaid carers within the community. The practice was formally presented with their certificate after demonstrating strong progress in improving carer identification, awareness, and support.

During Carers Week, the practice undertook a major outreach effort—sending questionnaires via SMS, email, and paper copies—which led to the identification of 259 previously unrecognised carers. This increased the Carers Register by 67%, rising from 388 to 647 registered carers, including 12 young carers who will now receive dedicated support.

Their success has been supported by close collaboration and guidance from Susan Lee, Primary Care Coordinator at Teesside Mind, whose expertise helped the practice meet the accreditation standards.

Practice Manager Sheila Bladen praised the team’s achievement:

“The practice team, led by our Carer Ambassador Jenna Watson, have done a terrific job identifying many previously unrecognised carers. Now that these carers have been added to our register, we can offer more meaningful wellbeing support to our carer community. Working closely with organisations such as Carers Together, Teesside Mind, Dementia Action Teesside, and with the guidance of Sue Lee, has been invaluable in helping us achieve Carer Friendly Accreditation.”

Enhanced Service Administrator Jenna Watson, who oversaw much of the outreach work, added:

“Our journey to becoming a Carer Friendly Practice has been really positive. Thanks to everyone who responded to our Carers Week questionnaire—our register grew significantly, and we’re now better equipped to ensure carers, including young carers, receive the support they need.”

The practice will continue developing its carer support pathways, building on its accredited status and strengthening partnerships across the region.

If you are a carer and would like support please ask at your surgery or go to https://wecareyoucare.info/find-local-help for support services

Please see here for more information on how GP surgeries are helping carers: https://wecareyoucare.info/info-advice/your-gp-surgery