Below are some stories from older people using our service that highlight the positive impact 'Independence at Home' has made to their lives.
Something to look forward to - male customer, 81
Initially somewhat reserved and socially isolated, this customer also had poor physical and mental health. Contact with his family was infrequent, and he didn’t feel he had many friends remaining in his local area. A Community Liaison Co-ordinator (CLC) began visiting him regularly and built up a professional relationship of trust.
To increase his social interaction, the CLC introduced him to our Activities Co-ordinator. He attended one social event and now is a regular participant at our Activities for All events. As his confidence grew, he joined a local club and this has increased his social circle. He also bought a computer, and joined a training course so he could learn how to use it.
It was discovered that the customer had overpaid an energy bill. Together with the CLC, the man was successful in obtaining a refund for this overpayment. He put the money towards a coach holiday, which he enjoyed so much he now goes on regular coach trips and keeps an eye out for similar holiday offers in the local press.
Our customer's health has improved, his confidence has increased, his social circle has expanded, and he’s keen to pursue his computer lessons among other ventures. From very little in his life, he now has something to look forward to.
From waste to weddings - female customer, 62
This customer has low grade learning difficulties, a speech impediment and has suffered from depression. When the Community Liaison Co-ordinator (CLC) made their initial visit to her flat they were alarmed that due to a lack of basic housekeeping skills, she was living in complete disarray, with personal effects and refuse piled up in every room. There was also a lack of adequate furniture. All of these hazards presented serious harm issues to the lady and her visitors.
This situation was addressed immediately without compromising the lady’s low self-esteem, by arranging a fire-risk assessment with the local fire station. The Fire Officer fully respected the nature of the lady’s vulnerability and after his meeting with her and with the CLC’s involvement, she was able to move forward with options to improve her lifestyle. A neighbour assisted her with learning every aspect of cleaning, storing and tidying and disposing of rubbish. Additional furniture was arranged from a local charity. Support from her neighbour and CLC helped her to achieve a gleaming, tidy flat.
She takes pride in herself and her home, and now invites her neighbours in for tea and chats and enjoys a much more increased social life. Through her new social life she met her fiance and they are now planning their wedding.
