The Nottingham based Carers Federation is extending its opening hours for people wishing to use the independent NHS complaints service it operates in four UK regions. A series of open events highlighting the role of ICAS, the Independent Complaints Advocacy Service, was recently held in 13 towns and cities.
The Carers Federation is a registered charity which assists both carers and the people for whom they care, offering free services such as carer groups, education, respite care and counselling.
It has been involved in operating ICAS since the East Midlands pilot phase in 2002. In April 2006 it was awarded Department of Health contracts to provide an improved service in three further regions – the North West, North East, Yorkshire and Humberside, as well as the East Midlands.
ICAS is a government-funded service which provides free, independent and confidential advice to patients or carers who wish to pursue a complaint about NHS treatment or care. A feature of the new ICAS service operated by the Carers Federation is longer hours on Thursday evenings, when offices now remain open until 7pm.
“The role of our advocates is to help people every step of the way in making complaints using the correct NHS complaints procedure. They can help clients write letters, explore various options, and can even accompany them to NHS meetings to ensure they have all the support and advice they need.”
Juliet Windsor, service director for the Carers Federation.
ICAS can help if you want to make a complaint about NHS services
Young Carer Support services
