The common core principles for carers are underpinned by the Trust's vision and values and based on the skills for care and skills for health guidelines developed as part of the ‘Carers Matter – Everybody’s Business’ publication.

The principles underpin the way in which carers are recognised and supported at the Trust.

• Principle 1 – carers are equal partners in care. Over time, carers become experts with skills that are to be valued and appreciated
• Principle 2 – make no assumptions regarding a carer’s capacity or carers’ capacities and willingness to take responsibility for, or to continue to care
• Principle 3 – support carers to be as physically and mentally well as possible and prevent ill health
• Principle 4 – work together to involve all carers in decision making and choices at all levels and at all stages in the caring role in a positive, timely and proactive way, following best practice in sharing information
• Principle 5 – provide care and support with flexibility and understanding in a personalised way that reflects the circumstances, cultural background and lifestyle of the carer
• Principle 6 – respect and recognise that carers will have their own support needs, rights and aspirations, which may be different from those of the cared for person
• Principle 7 – identify, support and enable both children and young people who are carers to be young as well as carers. Provide support and a safe environment to help learn, develop and enjoy positive childhoods
• Principle 8 – recognise the experience of carers as the caring role ends and after it has ended and offer support to carers accordingly