The placements at Helping Hands are so varied that we have positions to suit almost every kind of Carer and customer. Tracey has been our customer since 2005 and to start with she had no idea how much the care she received would change her life. With an individualised service which incorporates both hourly and ‘live-in care and live-out care’, Tracey’s care package is a great example of how Helping Hands provides a truly person-centred service. Live out care refers to the daily care provided by a professional carer who lives near the client, and works to promote independent living similar to that of a live-in carer.
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.”
