Meet Beryl, a carer from Denbeighshire, North Wales

What issues are you campaigning on?

My big issue is carers being involved properly when the person they care for is discharged from hospital. It's so important that the carer knows what's happening and why, and that the proper care is put in place to support them at a time which is often very difficult for them.  Its also important that carers are consulted fully because if the person is discharged too early this can put extra pressure on the carer, and this can affect their own health.

The other issue is the benefits system. The Government needs to look at the effect the system is having on carers. Its hitting us hard, particularly older carers who can't claim Carers Allowance.

What has your experience of Patient Public Forums been?

Being involved with the PPI forum has been really constructive.  We've had plenty of updates from the hospital, and when we've raised issues, we've seen things happen - for example, we complained that the toilets weren't cleaned. This was taken up and the situation is much better.  Staff are also more aware about carers now.  Since we raised this, the discharge liaison nurses take the carer's needs into consideration.

What would you say to other carers thinking of getting involved?

 Say what you feel, be honest -there's no need to jazz up your views. But also there's no-one else to say it for you. We need carers to speak up.

Find out more about your local PPI forum here...