A NEW ‘passport’ has been introduced to give carers more privileges when looking after people in hospital.

Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust’s Carer’s Passport gives support to carers who are looking after patients while they are in hospital and gives them the opportunity to work with doctors and nurses.

The passport gives carers privileges not given to others, like out-of-hours visiting and overnight stays, as well as discounted food and drink in Harrogate District Hospital.

The initiative has been launched by Tammy Gotts, lead matron for Patients Living with Dementia.

She said: “We recognise that carers may wish to be involved in the care of a patient while they are in hospital. Therefore, patients will benefit from co-ordination, understanding and co-operation between hospital staff and those who know them best.”

If you are a carer at Harrogate District Hospital or Ripon Community Hospital and would like a Passport, phone Ben Haywood, Learning Disabilities Liaison Nurse, on 01423 553690, via a Matron or through the Palliative Care Team, on 01423 553464.