Simply, Tracey’s objective is to lead an independent life with maximised choice and autonomy. She has a Helping Hands Carer throughout the day who lives locally and so is able to be on call at night – we call this ‘live-in, live-out care’. We also provide a team of hourly visiting Carers to help at key times. Whether it’s shopping, socialising with friends or even a spontaneous trip to the pub, her Carers provide continuity of care and self-sufficiency which is second to none.
Tracey felt initial apprehension when meeting her first Carer and the Carer felt apprehensive too – this is completely natural. It soon became clear over morning coffee that their personalities were perfectly suited, and they stayed together for three and a half years!
Tracey would like to share with all helping Hands Carers: “At this point in my life, I couldn’t imagine having it any other way. Without Helping Hands Carers I couldn’t have returned to work, began studying for my second degree in Psychology or gained as much independence as I have from my family. I understand Carers at home have to maintain a professional relationship, but for me you are not just Carers, you are friends.”