A structured pathway for supporting carers of people living with dementia in Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly

Many people living with dementia are supported by unpaid carers, whom the social care system heavily relies on. Carers of people living with dementia tend to experience high levels of psychological morbidity as well as social isolation, physical ill-health and financial hardship. Many require relationship-centred, specialist support such as that provided by Admiral Nurses. An Admiral Nurse service in the southwest of England has implemented a care pathway structured around a six-week telephone intervention, which is responsive to each carer's needs and provides tailored psychological support, education about dementia, practical problem-solving and advice on coping strategies. This article explores the development, structure and principles of this care pathway as well as its benefits for carers and nurses.