Gloucestershire Help to Live at Home Guide 2013/14

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Gloucestershire Help to Live at Home Guide 2013/14 Also available electronically at www.carechoices.co.uk and in spoken word through Browsealoud In partnership with

description

This guide has been produced to help people in Gloucestershire find out about the services which are available in the area which can help us to live happily and safely at home for as long as possible. For a free hard copy of this guide please call Care Choices on 0800 389 2077.

Transcript of Gloucestershire Help to Live at Home Guide 2013/14

Page 1: Gloucestershire Help to Live at Home Guide 2013/14

GloucestershireHelp to Live at Home Guide 2013/14

Also available electronically at www.carechoices.co.uk and in spoken word through Browsealoud

In partnership with

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Live in 24 | Cleeve Hill | Cheltenham | Gloucestershire | GL52 3PW

We offer a RAPID RESPONSE service and can have a carer to you

within hours

livein24.co.uk

helps people, whose age, health or mobility make everyday life more of a challenge, to live their life their way

Helping you live your life, your way

For more information call Freephone

0800 292 2424

Cleeve Link Ltd | Cleeve Hill | Cheltenham | Gloucestershire | GL52 3PW

Telecare ServicesOur phones are answered 24 hours a day

You choose the care you need and how often you need it.We provide care to the elderly and adults with

complex needs across Gloucestershire. Care programmes can be arranged from daily, weekly,

1 – 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.Our services ranges from meal preparation, domestic

chores and help with washing, dressing and going to bed, to nursing, domiciliary and respite care.

Whatever suits you.Tel: 01242 672 022cleevelink.co.uk

helps people, whose age, health or mobility make everyday life more of a challenge, to live their life their way.

With a carer, you can get back to doing the things you enjoy such as attending social activities, hobbies and spending time with family with the support of around the clock care, support and companionship.

When you need a little extra support

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Keeping well 24Keeping active 24

Healthy lifestyles 25Health trainers 25 Alcohol 25 Smoking 25 Social activities 25 Volunteering 26 Foot care 26 Hearing and sight problems 26

Money matters 27Benefit assessment 27 Money management 28 Legal advice 28

Keeping safe 29Protecting vulnerable adults 29 What is adult abuse? 29

Staying safe in your home 30Are you safe from fire? 30 Keeping safe at home - intruders and unwanted visitors 31

Housing with care 31Extra care housing 31 Sheltered (or retirement) housing 31

For more information 32Gloucestershire Care & Support Services Directory 32 This guide’s helpline 32

Welcome to the Help to Live at Home Guide 4Further advice and information 4

Help at home 8Home care agencies 8 Paying for care in your own home 9 Do I have to pay for social care? 9 Gloucestershire County Council’s self-funder initiative 10 Advocacy 10 Eligibility for state benefits 11 Attendance Allowance 11 Meal providers 12 Equipment and adaptations at home 12 How can an occupational therapist help me? 13

Supporting people to stay independent 14 Reablement support provided by Health & Adult Social Care 14 Rehabilitation in a day centre 15 Short stay residential rehabilitation 15

Making life easier in your home 16In the living room 16 In the bedroom 17 In the kitchen 18 In the bathroom 19 Day centres 20 Telecare 20

Carers 21Support for carers 21 A Carer’s Assessment 21 Respite for carers 20 Sitting service 20

Travel and transport 22Community transport 22 Public transport 23 Am I still safe to drive? 23 The Blue Badge scheme 23 Accessibility services 23

Contents

Gloucestershire County Council’s distribution of this publication does not constitute their support or recommendation of any of the products or services advertised or mentioned within.

For further copies of this guide, please contact In Touch Project, telephone: 01452 528491 or Village and Community Agents at GRCC or the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868.

l l l l T: 01452 426868E: [email protected]

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Further advice and information

of options as well as information and advice through the following:

Whatever your circumstances and whether you can pay for your own care or not, we can signpost you to a range

are able to visit people in their own homes and make direct contact with organisations able to provide the service they need.

Gloucestershire Village and Community Agents provide older people in Gloucestershire with easier access to information and services. Agents

people so that you can stay living independently and safely in your own neighbourhood. This guide sets out what is currently available.

Please keep this guide handy and feel free to share it with friends and family, so that you can talk through your plans with them.

I really hope that our guide will help you to choose the right services which will help you to live safely and happily in your own home for as long as you can. After all, I’m sure that’s what most people in Gloucestershire really want.

Best wishes,

Cllr Andrew Gravells Cabinet member for Gloucestershire County Council

Most of us want to live independently at home for as long as we can, but some of us may need some support to help us to do that as we get older.

This guide has been produced to help people in Gloucestershire like you and I to find out about the services which are available in our area, and which could help us to live happily and safely at home for as long as possible.

Here you will find lots of options to look at, whatever your individual needs may be, along with information and advice which will help you to make the right decisions for you.

My colleagues at Gloucestershire County Council and I are keen to make a real difference to people’s lives and to make available a range of services which will help to achieve this.

We want to tell you about the choice of locally-based services for older

Welcome to the Help to Live at Home Guide

Village and Community Agents bridge the gap between communities and organisations that are able to offer help or support.

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Further advice and information continued

fit classes, IT classes, walking clubs and social groups.

Contacts for Village and Community Agents and the In Touch Project:

Barbara Piranty –In Touch Project Manager Holly Mills - Project WorkerTelephone: 01452 528491Email: [email protected]

There are currently over 230 older people’s social groups and lunch clubs in the county. The project provides advice, support and information to these groups to help keep them viable. Support includes promotion, funding, volunteers and insurance.

The project also works with communities to set up new initiatives for older people, such as lunch clubs, keep

Housing - services to help you manage well at home and maintain independence and information about moving somewhere more suitable.

Finance - paying for care including benefits and allowances, council and NHS funding, insurances, financial

The service covers housing, care, finance and rights and is delivered through a website, telephone advice line and a network of local and specialist partner organisations. Care and support - in your own home, in specialist housing or in a care home.

The In Touch Project aims to support older people to set up activities in their communities, which in time they can organise and run themselves.

FirstStop Advice is an independent, free service offering advice and information for older people, their families and carers about housing and care options in later life. It is led by the charity Elderly

Accommodation Counsel (EAC), working with other national and local organisations.

In TouchThe

Project

Village and Community Agents:• provide high quality information;• put people in direct contact with organisations that can provide the service they need;• carry out practical checks; and • help develop community activities.

Thirty eight agents work countywide,

community agents work with BME groups and a team of specialist agents are able to offer support to people who have been affected by cancer.

Please contact Gloucestershire Rural Community Council (GRCC) for more information on 01452 528491 or contact the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868.

continued on page 6

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Further advice and information continued

planning and financial products.

Your rights - the law; standards you should expect; how to get what you are entitled to; advocacy services that can support you.

friends and family.Much of the information in this guide

can be found on Gloucestershire County Council’s Your Circle website. Visit: www.yourcircle.org.uk

Your Circle may include statutory services, but people may also want to use local services like transport, leisure, education, health and housing. Support can also come from voluntary and community groups, neighbours, carers,

Your Circle aims to give individuals, families and carers much greater choice and control over the care and support services they receive and who provides them.

Rural Community Council (GRCC) to offer free help to older people in rural Gloucestershire to get started and feel more confident online, learning computer basics on their own terms.GRCC provides help and advice with computers and the internet for those who are new, nervous users or those who want to further their knowledge.

Support can be through one-to-one training and support by volunteers in your own home, or group sessions around the county.

For more information please contact Holly Mills, Connect project co-ordinator at GRCC, on 01452 528491 or email on [email protected]

Magic Mouse is run by Age UK Gloucestershire at locations in

Using the internetThere is lots of information available on the internet. If you have never used the internet, but would like to try, help is available.

First Click courses run in libraries across the county. They cost just £15 for three sessions of three hours spread across three weeks. Courses are available on demand for people who have never used the internet before. Sign up and a course can be organised in your local library! To book a place, contact 0845 230 5420.

Or if you just need a little bit of help, why not ask in your local library? Library staff help over 500 people a week make better use of the internet.

Connect is run by Gloucestershire

Contact FirstStop Advice on 0800 377 7070 or visit www.firststopadvice.org.uk

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Further advice and information continued

For more information, contact 01452 422660 or [email protected]

Cheltenham and Gloucester. Sessions can also be held in your own home. Sessions are taught by volunteers and there is a small charge to cover costs.

• providing access to Independent Health Complaints Advocacy when people need help to make a complaint about NHS services they have received.

Registering to become a member is really easy. Just complete the form online or call us and we’ll do the rest. Your voice really does count and can change health and social care for the better. Join us and make a difference today.

Tel: 0800 652 5193 Email: [email protected] www.healthwatchgloucestershire.co.uk

The aim of Healthwatch Gloucestershire is to give both citizens and local communities a stronger voice to influence and challenge how health and social care services are commissioned and provided.

We will do this by:• gathering local people’s views and

experiences of health and social care, ensuring they have real influence with those who commission and provide services;

• providing people with information and advice to help them make the right choices about their care; and

l l l l T: 01452 426868E: [email protected]

and comprehensive lists of home care providers, care homes and care homes with nursing in Gloucestershire. Ask for a copy from the Adult Helpdesk - Tel: 01452 426868

The Directory is also available on the Care Choices website at www.carechoices.co.uk/region/Gloucestershire

Gloucestershire Care & Support Services Directory

Available from Gloucestershire County Council and published by Care Choices (who also produced this

guide), the Gloucestershire Care & Support Services Directory contains useful editorial

The comprehensive guide tochoosing and paying for care / support• Domiciliary care / support • Care homes • Specialist care • Useful contacts

Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham

In partnership with

GloucestershireCare & Support Services Directory 2013/14

Your independent consumer champion for health and social care.

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Home care agencies

appropriately registered with the Care Quality Commission. The Care Quality Commission is the national independent regulator for all care services.

If you are not eligible for care funded by the council and would like to organise your own care at home, you need to think about it carefully. Before you make any decisions, ask for a copy of the agency’s contract terms and read these with someone you trust. Get as much help as you can going over it and ask any questions you may have before signing anything. The Citizens Advice Bureau or Age UK could help with this.

You should expect the care agency and the individual care workers to respect your personal preferences, dignity and privacy.

Home care agencies provide help in people’s homes and sometimes one-to-one support to help people get out and about. This is sometimes called ‘domiciliary care’.

These agencies provide a variety of services such as personal care, cleaning your home, shopping and sitting services. Not all agencies provide the same services and charges vary between agencies. Home care agencies provide a care worker, someone who can help you with everyday activities, such as getting out of bed, getting dressed and bathing.

For care packages which have been arranged by Gloucestershire County Council, contracts and care plans will have been completed by your care manager and the agencies used will be

Help at home

Here are some other things you may want to think about:

• What experience does the agency have in providing the service you need? • Can they supply references for you to check?• Do all care workers have a criminal records disclosure (usually called a CRB check)?• Can you see a copy of the agency’s Care Quality Commission registration certificate? • How long has the agency been operating?• Can you meet with your care workers before deciding whether to go ahead?• How many care workers would be caring for you?• What happens if your care worker goes on holiday or is sick?• Will you be notified in advance that a different care worker will be caring for you?• Will the care workers be fully trained or receiving ongoing training? • How much will the care cost?• What exactly will the fees cover?• How often will your care plan be reviewed?• How can you contact the agency in an emergency or outside office hours?• How hard or easy would it be to make a complaint and how are things then put right?

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Paying for care in your own home

Do I have to pay for social care?

need. You can decide how to use your personal budget, providing it meets the needs identified in your assessment, is legal, keeps you safe and offers value for money.

Some people will not have to pay towards the cost of their care service, but others may be asked to contribute towards the full cost, following a financial assessment.

‘Guide to using direct payments’ - This guide is for people who have made the decision to use direct payments. It contains practical tips on recruitment and supervising staff, keeping safe and ensuring value for money. It also includes web addresses for various sites that provide helpful resources for people managing budgets and employing people.

If you or your family feel you need extra support to stay living independently at home, you may be eligible for support from Gloucestershire County Council.

If you are assessed as being eligible for support from the county council to help you to live at home, you may be offered a personal budget. The council will assess your needs and you will receive a sum of money to buy the services you

Following a social care assessment, many people do not have to pay towards the cost of their social care support or service, but some may be asked to contribute. You will have a Financial and Benefits Assessment and will be told of any contribution before you incur costs, so there are no unpleasant surprises. The amount you have to pay will depend on your income, savings and regular financial commitments.

A number of leaflets about this are available at www.yourcircle.org.uk to help you:

‘Guide to direct payments’ - This guide explains what a direct payment is, who can have a direct payment, who is a ‘suitable person’ and what you can use the direct payment for.

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specialist information and advice.PayingForCare can provide information

and advice on:• understanding social services

assessments; • finding the right care services and

support organisations; • checking entitlement to state benefits

including Attendance Allowance, Pension Credit, NHS Continuing Healthcare and other valuable benefits;

• ensuring that local authority support such as the 12 week property disregard and deferred payment agreement is considered;

• paying for care fees, protecting assets, funding top-up payments, securing an inheritance and tax planning; and

• ensuring the older person’s wishes are respected and using Enduring/Lasting Power of Attorney (or equivalent) to protect independence and integrity.

Council staff will directly refer people to PayingForCare, so they can receive independent advice and information on long term care planning. Care fees planning advice is not something that can be provided by the council. Only individuals regulated and authorised by the Financial Services Authority (FSA) can provide advice and recommendations on long term care funding solutions.

The self-funder initiative from Gloucestershire County Council aims to support older people who are responsible for the cost of their own long-term care to get access to specialist information and advice so that they can make informed choices about:• their own care and the options available

(such as Extra Care, care at home etc);• how they fund the right care in the right

place for the rest of their lives;• reducing the risk of their money running

out; and • protecting their assets and wealth and

inheritance legacies.

The initiative will support people and their families to understand the true cost of care in later life and help them plan for the future.

The council is working with a not for profit organisation called PayingForCare Limited to support people in Gloucestershire to access proper

Gloucestershire County Council’s self-funder initiative

Advocacy

advocate if you feel unsure or concerned when you are faced with making an important decision about your care choices.

You can contact an independent advocacy service on 0800 644 6448.

Advocates can give advice, support and information to people of any age, helping them to voice their concerns and guiding them through difficult or challenging times. Consider using the services of an

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Eligibility for state benefitsbe eligible for Attendance Allowance if you are over 65.

If you are under 65, you may be eligible for Disability Living Allowance. You may

Attendance AllowanceThere are two rates of Attendance Allowance depending on how your disability affects you: • the lower rate, if you need help with

personal care frequently or supervision continually throughout the day only, help with personal care or someone to watch over you during the night only, or someone with you when you are on dialysis; or

• the higher rate, if you meet both a day and a night condition for the middle rate, or if you are terminally ill and claiming under special rules (see below).

Special rules - if you are terminally illIf you have a progressive disease and are not reasonably expected to live for more than another six months, there are special rules to help you get Attendance Allowance more quickly and easily. You can get the higher rate immediately, whatever your care needs are, without waiting until you have needed help for six months.

You can make a claim for someone under the special rules without them knowing or without their permission. If they satisfy the relevant conditions, they will get a letter saying that they have been awarded Attendance Allowance, but special rules will not be mentioned.

For further advice contact FirstStop Advice on 0800 377 7070 or your local Citizens Advice Bureau.

You can get Attendance Allowance even if no one is actually giving you the care you need - even if you live alone. Attendance Allowance is not usually affected by any savings or income you may have.

To get Attendance Allowance, your disability must be severe enough for you to need any of the following:• help with things such as washing,

dressing, eating, getting to and usingthe toilet, or communicating yourneeds;

• supervision to avoid putting yourself or others in substantial danger, for example, needing someone to keep an eye on your medical condition or diet, or because you cannot control the way you behave; or

• someone with you when you are on dialysis.

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Looking for care or support?

Need more information on care, housing with support, funding and rights? Want

to talk it over with someone? This Directory’s free helpline offers you independent

information on all aspects of looking for care and support. We can generate a

personalised report with details of care homes or housing with care schemes that meet

your needs and send you additional information on choosing and funding care too.

One call to the Freephone number 0800 389 2077, will enable our

operators to build a profile of exactly what type of care you’re looking for

according to your needs.

Call 0800 389 2077

Meal providers

homes. Meals are available seven days a week. Special dietary needs can be catered for.

To organise community meals, get in touch with the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868. Community meals cost £3.50 per day. Frozen meals are also available and cost £2.50 per day. Freezers and microwaves can also be provided.

For more information, go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

If you have difficulty shopping, carrying food home or cooking meals there are a number of alternatives.

Many supermarkets will now deliver food. The larger supermarkets usually offer an online facility and others will take shopping home for you once you have chosen it.

Community meals, which used to be called ‘meals on wheels’, are delivered to people who are living in their own

Equipment and adaptations at homecould be all you need.

Mears Safe at Home scheme can help with fitting this essential equipment. The service helps people to live independently at home, with everything from kitchen and bathroom adaptations to a handyperson service.

You can contact Mears Safe at Home yourself on 0800 032 3139 or be referred

Some tasks at home can be difficult if your mobility is restricted. Fortunately, there is help available.

There are many types of equipment that can help you to live independently at home. Something as simple as fitting a grab rail in the right place to help you get up and down steps safely and easily, or equipment to help you get out of bed,

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Equipment and adaptations at home continued

How can an occupational therapist help me?

Social care occupational therapists (OTs) support people who have a permanent disability, promoting independent living in their own homes. They advise people of all ages, aiming to minimise the impact of the disability in all areas of their life.

If you are having difficulties at home with your daily routine, and especially if you are thinking of buying expensive equipment, an occupational therapy assessment may be able to help you.

OTs are focused on helping people get their independence back and can advise on different ways of doing things, as well as advising on appropriate equipment and adaptations to the home.

If you think an OT could make a difference to you, contact the Adult

Helpdesk on 01452 426868 and ask for an OT assessment.

Some reputable equipment suppliers also have qualified OTs linked to them or you could find your own qualified Occupational Therapist by calling 0800 389 4873 or go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

Do not buy expensive equipment, especially from door step sellers, without checking it is the right equipment for you.

There are many ways you can make life easier, and places to go for help. You can quickly carry out a guided assessment on the AskSARA website and get plenty of ideas about care and support needs, visit: www.asksara.org.uk

For further advice contact FirstStop Advice on tel: 0800 377 7070.

by a health or social care worker. You can also contact our Adult

Helpdesk on 01452 426868, who can organise things like grab rails and banister rails to be fitted quickly and free of charge.

Gloucestershire County Council’s Independent Living Centre in Cheltenham has a variety of equipment on site you can try out and an occupational therapist is on hand for advice. Make an appointment to go along on 0845 659 8356.

Older people in particular are sometimes persuaded to buy costly equipment. It is important to get the right advice before you do this so that your money is well spent. Mears Safe at

Home can assist with this. Call them on 0800 032 3139.

Some equipment is also available from GIS Healthcare. A professional, such as a physiotherapist or occupational therapist (OT) may refer you to GIS, or you can buy equipment yourself directly from GIS Healthcare on 01452 520438.

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Supporting people to stay independent Reablement support provided by Health & Adult Social Care

Our main focus is to support you to remain in your own home. For example you may need opportunities to: • rebuild your confidence to carry out

daily living tasks essential for your health and well being;

• increase your strength, stamina and mobility and continue a therapyrehabilitation programme at home tomaximise your recovery;

• learn new ways of carrying out activities to increase independence and reduce risks, organise your day and prioritise tasks differently;

• look at ways to manage your worries or concerns; or

What is Reablement? Reablement means help with the transition back to independence after a period of ill health, a hospital stay, a residential care stay, or simply a fall or accident.

Anyone over the age of 18 who meets the Reablement service criteria may have access to Reablement support services for up to six weeks. There will be no charge for the service.

Through the Reablement pathway, you will be encouraged and supported to rebuild your independence to a level which is safe and meaningful for your personal lifestyle.

If you are looking for information about care and support, our website can help you.

The publishers of this Directory have a new website which lets you search for the care you want in your local area.• It provides a fully searchable facility for care homes, home care, supported living (learning disability only) and housing with care • Regularly updated data from CQC• Up to date information on important topics such as paying for care, care options and further help and information• Information on how to contact our helpline (see page 32)• You have the option to save your search results and return to them at a later date • View electronic versions of our Directories

Start your search today: www.carechoices.co.uk

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Reablement support provided by Health & Adult Social Care continued

Rehabilitation in a day centre

long as possible. To find day care provided by

independent organisations, go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

Rehabilitation in a day centre provides a programme of rehabilitation that may run as part of a package of support to enable you to live in your own home as

Short stay residential rehabilitation

manager will assist you to write a support plan and arrange a suitable long-term service provider. You will also have the option of buying your own support in a method that suits your lifestyle and gives you greater control of how your needs may be met. You will be offered a financial assessment to establish your contribution towards the cost of any future services. More information For more information about reablement support contact the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868, or email: [email protected]

Short stay residential rehabilitation is available and will suit people who will benefit from a programme of rehabilitation, but who, in the short term, may not be safe to stay at home on their own. There are several residential units across the county that provide this service. You will have the opportunity to recover, rebuild your confidence, and to practice daily living skills, such as washing, dressing and preparing simple meals. What if I still need help afterwards? If ongoing support is required to maintain your independence, a care

• try out equipment and ideas designedto support your independence.

The Reablement team will work with you by offering an assessment in order to identify outcomes and agree a plan of Reablement. You will be allocated a key worker who will review progress with you regularly.

Community health and social care teams working together will provide this service. The team includes physiotherapists, occupational therapists, social workers, community

mental health nurses, community nurses, reablement support workers and other specialist services, for example speech and language therapists.

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In the living room

Making life easier in your home

BYRON

032 3139; GIS Healthcare on 01452 520438 to buy equipment; Warm & Well 0800 500 3076 for assistance with insulating your home.

Organisations that can help: Adult Helpdesk 01452 426868 for referrals to occupational therapy and social care services; Mears Safe at Home for assistance with fitting equipment 0800

Chair raisers

Plug with handle

Easi - reach

WHAT you HAVe To do

WHAT Is dIFFICulT FoR you

sImPle soluTIons

moRe ComPlex soluTIons

ComPlex soluTIons

Get in andout of chairs

standing up from sitting is difficult

• Block of foam in chair base• Buy a new chair – get professional help to make sure the height is right• Regular gentle exercise• Get up regularly, to keep mobile

Ready made chairraisers if your chair is low

Buy electric riserchair

open andclose windows

• Can’t reach windows• not secure to leave windows open

• move furniture out of the way• Gadget to open/close window

• Remove window opener• Install extractor fan• Install new windows

environmental controls

Control heating

Can’t reach controlsfor fire or heating

• Change switches• Fit timer switch

• move heating controls • Install new or additional heating system

switch lights on and off

• Can’t reach switch• switch is difficult to use

• light switch toggle• socket extension• Handi-plugs

• move light switches• Replace light switches

• environmental controls

Keep warm • Affording the fuel• Carrying the fuel• Control heating

• Insulate your home• Ask for a winter fuel payment• use a trolley – if you can safely lift the fuel into the trolley

Replace the fire • Get a grant• Change to a cheaper heating system

Watch TV Hear the sound of the TV

use subtitles see GP • Get a room loop• Request an assessment for a hearing aid

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In the bedroom

M T W T F S S

techniques; Mears Safe at Home for assistance with fitting equipment 0800 032 3139; GIS Healthcare on 01452 520438 to buy equipment.

Organisations that can help: Adult Helpdesk 01452 426868 for referrals to occupational therapy and social care services and for advice on learning

Pillow raisers

Bed raisers

Pill dispenser

Easy grip scissors

WHAT you HAVe To do

WHAT Is dIFFICulT FoR you

sImPle soluTIons

moRe ComPlex soluTIons

ComPlex soluTIons

Get in and out of bed

• standing up from sitting on the bed• difficult to move from wheelchair to bed• Bed is hard to reach• Bed is too soft

• move bed/furniture• leg lifter• Raise bed• learn new techniques for moving safely

• Fit grab rails• Buy a new bed mattress• Transfer board

• Hospital bed• Buy an electric adjustable bed• mobile hoist• Ceiling track hoist

sit up in bed,turn or rollover

• Bed is too soft• Bedding is too heavy• nothing to lean on

• Change bedding• learn new techniques for moving safely

• Buy a bed cradle• Buy a bed ladder• Bed lever• Pillow raiser• Change mattress

• Buy a specialised mattress• drop-down rail• monkey pole

Keepingwarm in bed

Checking the safetyof your electric blanket

• Call Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868

Gettingdressed

difficult to reach all of your body

• Call Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868• learn new techniques for dressing• Buy clothes with different fastenings

Buy simple gadgets: long handled shoe horn; elastic shoe laces; dressing stick; button hook; stocking aids

Consider care inyour own home

Cut your nails • Can’t reach feet• Hard to hold scissors

easy grip scissors see a podiatrist

Take yourtablets

• opening bottles• Remembering to take tablets

• Ask pharmacist for an easy to open bottle• Keep a note when you have taken a tablet

Get a pill dispenserwith days and times marked

Ask someone toprompt you

Read the time see the clock to tell the time

Buy a clock with larger numbers

Buy a clock that ‘speaks’

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18 This Directory’s helpline 0800 389 2077 – information on choosing and paying for care

In the kitchen

for assistance with fitting equipment 0800 032 3139; GIS Healthcare on 01452 520438 to buy equipment.

Organisations that can help: Adult Helpdesk 01452 426868 for referrals to occupational therapy and social care services; Mears Safe at Home

Perching stool Liquid level indicator

Teapot tipperPan handle holder

Chopping board with spikes

Large handled cutlery

WHAT you HAVe To do

WHAT Is dIFFICulT FoR you

sImPle soluTIons

moRe ComPlex soluTIons

ComPlex soluTIons

Reachcupboards

• Cupboards are too high or low • Cupboards are too deep • Cupboard doors are too heavy

• Re-arrange things in cupboards/on surfaces • Buy easi-Reacher or Handi-Reacher

Alter spring in doorclosers

lower or raisecupboards

use taps andswitches

• Taps or switches are too awkward • Can’t reach taps or switches

Fit tap turners • Change switches• Raise or reposition taps• Fit lever taps or new taps

Alter kitchen

Cutting,chopping, preparing and cooking food

• Work surface too high or low • Hard to grip packets or jars• Hard to grip knife• Pans or kettles too heavy to lift

• sit at a table• Range of kitchen gadgets

available: knife with a thick handle; chopping board with spikes; pan handle holder; teapot tipper; lid gripper.

• Food processor• Perching/high stool• Buy a trolley

• Change height of work surface

• make space under work surface for knees when sitting

moving around the kitchen

not enough space Re-organise furniture Review mobility equipment used

Adaptation to kitchen

eating and drinking

• Cutlery is hard to grip• Food/plate keeps

slipping • Can’t carry food to table• Can’t lift cup

• Call Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868• large handled cutlery• non-slip mat• lightweight insulated cup• use a cup with two handles

Buy a trolley

laundry and ironing

• Washing machine istoo high or too low

• Putting up ironing board

Wall-fixed ironing board Raise/lower washingmachine

Change washingmachine or iron

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In the bathroom

for assistance with fitting equipment 0800 032 3139; GIS Healthcare on 01452 520438 to buy equipment.

Organisations that can help: Adult Helpdesk 01452 426868 for referrals to occupational therapy and social care services; Mears Safe at Home

Grab rail

Long-handled sponges

Shower board

Raised toilet seat

Toilet seat and support frame

Tap turners

WHAT you HAVe To do

WHAT Is dIFFICulT FoR you

sImPle soluTIons

moRe ComPlex soluTIons

ComPlex soluTIons

Wash hands,face andbody

• Turning the taps • standing at the basin • Basin is too low or too high • Can’t reach all parts of

the body

• Tap turners • long-handled sponge • Flannel strap • Call Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868

• lever taps or new taps

• stool

• Raise or lower basin • showers

Have a bath • Turning the taps• stepping into the bath• Risk of slipping in the bath • Getting up out of the bath • difficulty washing your back

• strip wash• non-slip mat in bath• Tap turners • Buy a long-handled

sponge• Half-step

• Grab rails• Bath board• Bath seat • lever taps or new

taps

• Bath lift• mobile hoist• Ceiling track hoist• Replace bath

with shower • Convert bathroom

to a wet room • Consider care in

your own homedry yourself • Floor is slippery

• Room is too cold• difficulty in drying body

• Heat bathroom• non-slip mat• Towelling gown

Change floor covering

Hot air body dryer

use the toilet • Toilet is too high or too low• difficult to clean yourself• Flush lever is awkward• Toilet is hard to get to

• Raised toilet seat• Combined toilet seat

and support frame • Flush lever extension• Call Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868

• Buy a commode• Buy a portable

urinal• Grab rails

• specialist toilet• Alter position of toilet • Request short-

term loan of commode

Clean teeth • Gripping the toothbrush• standing at the basin

Toothbrush gripper • electric toothbrush• stool

Have a shower

• difficult to stand for long shower • shower too high • shower controls are awkward • shower is slippery • not enough room to move

• strip wash• non-slip mats• Half-step

• shower board• shower chair or

stool • Replace shower

controls

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Making life easier in your home continued

Telecare

recommendations from friends and neighbours.

Or get in touch with Mears Safe at Home on 0800 032 3139 or through www.yourcircle.org.uk

the operator can hear your voice and talk to you;

• contacting a relative or friend to check that you are safe, healthy and happy;

• contacting your housing manager or scheme manager; and

• contacting an ambulance, the fire service or the police.

Telecare can help you live independently in your own home by giving peace of mind to you and your relatives. The equipment is simple to use and can be tailored to suit your needs, for example, it can alert a carer or a care worker in an emergency instead of a monitoring centre.

You can also purchase your own telecare system, including pendant and sensors, from a number of independent providers.

For more information go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

There are several small changes you can make to your home to make life easier, such as fitting lever taps or grab rails and you may need a handyperson to do this for you. You can often get

Gloucestershire County Council’s Telecare service is free for people who meet the council’s criteria. Telecare places sensors around the home that monitor for accidents and emergencies.

Telecare can support people with dementia, learning disabilities, physical disabilities and mental health problems.

It uses technology to communicate directly with a monitoring centre. Sensors detect potential dangers, such as smoke or flooding, and alert the monitoring centre. Telecare can also provide support for people prone to wandering or with memory difficulties.

In the event of an emergency, a trained operator will respond immediately.

The monitoring centre is staffed by trained operators 24 hours a day. Operators provide different responses depending on your requirements. These may include: • reassurance if it isn’t an emergency -

Day centres

places available. For more information or to make a referral contact 01452 616173 or email [email protected]

For details of independently-run day centres, go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

A number of local organisations run day centres, providing activities, good company and a meal.

Age UK - Most people are referred to the centres through health and social care services, but there are private

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Support for carers

One in eight or more of the adult population may become carers at some point in their lives and help and support is available. There are many organisations that can give you information, support and help.

A carer is any person who provides unpaid help regularly to a partner, child, relative, friend or neighbour who is frail, has physical or mental health illness, disability or issues with substance misuse.

A Carer’s Assessment

• recognise the crucial care you areproviding;

• look at how the care you provideaffects other aspects of your life;

• determine what might help you in your caring role and help maintain your own health and well-being; and

• see if those needs can be met by socialcare or other services.

A Carer’s Assessment gives you the opportunity to talk to a social care professional about your caring role and to find out what help and support is available to you. Anyone who provides a substantial amount of care on a regular basis can have a Carer’s Assessment. This does not test your ability to look after the person you care for but it will:

Carers

continued on page 22

Help is available with transport and alternative care

For more information or to book a space, contact Chris Cam on 01452 500885 / 426254 or e-mail [email protected] Visit: www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/article/106051/Positive-Caring-Programme

Carers’ Emergency SchemeDo you worry about what would happen to the person you look after if you were taken ill or caught in an emergency? The Carers’ Emergency Scheme can give you peace of mind. For more information go to www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/emergencycare

Carers Gloucestershire is an independent, countywide, carer-led organisation which offers information, support, advice and advocacy. Contact them on 01452 386283 or go to www.carersgloucestershire.org.uk

Gloucestershire Young Carers has several groups across the county which provide help, support and social activities for young carers. For more information go to www.glosyoungcarers.org.uk

The county council runs regular Positive Caring courses for carers around the county.

Weekly sessions over six weeks will focus on different aspects of the caring role such as how to access services, finances, how to look after yourself and juggling caring with other responsibilities.

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A Carer’s Assessment continued

Respite for carers

www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/article/105048/Request-a-carers-needs-assessment or contact the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868.

You can have a Carer’s Assessment even if the person you are caring for has no involvement with social care. For further information go to

Respite schemes, or short breaks services, are aimed at providing short breaks for carers of people with long-term illnesses or disabilities. Care is provided for a specified period of time and may be within a residential home, a respite care service or within the person’s own home. Alternatively, it may take the form of a worker taking the cared-for person out to give the carer some time to themselves.

For further information contact the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868, go to www.yourcircle.org.uk or www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/article/109565/Local-organisations

Sitting service

Helpdesk on 01452 426868, go to www.yourcircle.org.uk or www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/article/109565/Local-organisations

If you care for someone you may need someone to stay with them while you go out. Home care agencies often provide this service as well as some charities. For more information, call the Adult

Travel and transport Community transport

Community transport includes door-to-door transport. It varies by local area and has to be pre-booked. Dial-a-rides are wheelchair accessible and are

generally for anyone who has difficulty with public transport. Services, fares, eligibility and the kind of journeys you can make vary from place to place.

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Public transport

Or try one of these websites: www.stagecoachbus.com www.gloucestershire.gov.uk/bustimetables http://traveline.info

Information about public transport can be found by calling Traveline on 0871 200 22 33. Calls cost 10p a minute from a land line.

Am I still safe to drive?

safe to do so.Go to www.roadsafety-gloucestershire.org.uk for more information.

SAGE - Safer Driving with Age is a programme providing older drivers with support, guidance and coaching to enable them to drive for as long as it is

The Blue Badge scheme

substantial and makes them unable or virtually unable to walk. For example, applicants should generally be physically incapable of visiting shops, public buildings and other places unless allowed to park close to their destination. Please remember, a badge will not be issued under this particular rule to a person who will just be travelling as a passenger.

The current cost of a Blue Badge is £10.For further advice, visit www.gloucestershire.gov.uk or contact the Blue Badge office at Gloucestershire County Council on 01242 532302 or Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868.

Under current regulations, badges may be automatically issued to disabled people (whether drivers or passengers) if they: • receive the higher rate of the

mobility component of DisabilityLiving Allowance (DLA);

• are registered severely sight impaired; • use cars supplied by a government

department or receive a government grant towards their own vehicles; or

• receive a War Pensioners Mobility Supplement.

Other people may be issued a badge if their disability is permanent and

Accessibility services

Pre-booking is advised in both Cheltenham (contact 01242 255333) and Gloucester (contact 01452 302871)

There are 8,000 locked toilets specifically for disabled people. You can get a key from most tourist offices or www.radar-shop.org.uk

Shopmobility schemes hire out or lend manual wheelchairs, powered wheelchairs and powered scooters to anyone who needs help with mobility to get around. In Gloucestershire, there are Shopmobility centres in Cheltenham and Gloucester.

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Keeping well

Keeping active

If you are concerned about falling, talk to your GP about being referred to a suitable exercise group through the exercise on prescription scheme or to your local district council who can advise on suitable activities in your area.

Remember, before beginning a new exercise regime, it’s a good idea to talk to your GP.

For more information go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

As people get older, keeping active can help them remain independent for as long as possible. Improving strength and balance can prevent falls and keep people from slowing down, so they can keep living the life they want.

Some of the benefits of keeping active include: • a reduced risk of developing a life-

threatening disease; • a greater likelihood of maintaining or

reaching a healthy weight; • a greater sense of well-being; and • improved sleep and increased vitality.

There are many activities that can help prevent falls and these include: • community exercise groups

specifically developed for increasingstrength and balance;

• tai chi is a form of exercise that has many health benefits and can improve balance;

• swimming improves muscle tone and strength while the body is supported;

• walking in a group can benefit fitness as well as being a social activity; and

• dancing can improve fitness and balance.

contacts and adopt a healthy lifestyle. Chronic disease, disability and poor health don’t automatically come with old age.

To ensure people age well, and later years are accompanied by good health, it’s important to remain active, engage in regular exercise, maintain your social

l l l l T: 01452 426868E: [email protected]

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Healthy lifestyles Health trainers

yourself; • healthy eating and weight management; • stopping smoking; • sensible drinking; and • becoming more physically active.

For more information on the community health trainers, contact 01452 554408 or email [email protected]

Community health trainers are local people who have been trained with the skills to help you make a real difference to your health. They offer free and confidential one-to-one advice to support you in improving your health and wellbeing.

They can help with: • improving your wellbeing, reducing

stress and feeling better about

AlcoholIndependence Trust community health trainers or refer you to another professional, such as a hospital consultant.

If you are concerned about your drinking, contact your GP. Your GP may offer you advice or support in the practice, put you in touch with

Smoking

There is support to give up smoking in Gloucestershire. Gloucestershire NHS Stop Smoking Service is a free NHS service provided by NHS Gloucestershire, which offers support

and advice to people who are motivated to quit smoking.

If you are motivated to quit, contact 0300 421 0040.

Social activities

Social activities play an important part in keeping you fit and healthy. This could be meeting a friend for lunch or a cup of tea, going to the theatre with your children or attending a day centre regularly.

The In Touch project may be able to advise you about activities in your area. Contact 01452 528491.

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Foot care

For more information go to www.yourcircle.org.uk

Looking after your feet can help prevent falls. There are many specialist advisers locally.

Volunteering

Find out more at Volunteering Gloucestershire on 0845 310 5337 or www.volunteerglos.org.uk

Volunteering is a great way to stay active, meet new people, learn new skills or use old skills!

Hearing and sight problems

The information at www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk will tell you all you need to know about hearing aids, whether you already have them or you are thinking about getting them.

Visit your optician or GP if you’re concerned with any aspect of your eyes or vision. Some general health conditions eg diabetes show themselves in the eye and an optometrist is trained to detect these. They will refer patients to other healthcare professionals as appropriate.

If appropriate, you may be referred to a consultant ophthalmologist who will assess whether you qualify for registration as either: • sight impaired (partially sighted); or • severely sight impaired (blind). If they think you do qualify, the ophthalmologist will complete a certificate of vision impairment and send it to the sensory team at Gloucestershire County Council.

If loss of sight is making life difficult, Insight Gloucestershire (formerly GCAB) can provide you with information and advice. They support all people who have

It is estimated that more than one in seven people have some degree of hearing loss – that’s over 9 million people in the UK alone. There are several reasons for hearing loss. The Action on Hearing Loss (formerly the RNID) website at www.actiononhearingloss.org.uk has lots of information, including some pointers that might indicate you are losing your hearing. If you are losing your hearing, you might find yourself struggling to communicate and realise that your quality of life is not as good as it could be. Hearing aids can help give you back confidence and independence.

If you have concerns about your hearing, visit your GP who can advise you on the options available to you before purchasing any equipment.

Gloucestershire Deaf Association (GDA) is the county’s frontline organisation supporting deaf and hard of hearing people. You can visit their centre in Gloucester on Wednesdays for advice and to purchase specialist listening aid equipment and visual alerters. Contact GDA on 01452 372999 or visit their website at www.glosdeaf.org.uk

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Hearing and sight problems continued

Centre, Cinderford can give advice and support. Contact 01594 827711 or email [email protected]

sight difficulties, not just blind people.Contact 01242 221170 or

www.insight-glos.org.uk The Sensory Services Team at

Gloucestershire County Council can give advice, support, skills training and information to visually impaired people, their families and care workers. To access their support call the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868.

The RNIB also sells equipment to help you manage. Contact 0303 123 9999 or www.rnib.org.uk

If you live in the Forest of Dean, the Forest Sensory Service at the Forge

Benefit assessment

available by visiting www.direct.gov.uk. The Citizens Advice Bureau also has online advice or you can contact your local office.

AgeUK will also help older people to access benefits. Call their national advice line: 0800 169 6565 or Age UK Gloucestershire on 01452 422660 or email [email protected]

There are several other helplines that give general advice about benefit entitlement:• Disability Living Allowance and

Attendance Allowance Helpline: 08457 123 456

• Employment and Support Allowance and Incapacity Benefit: 0800 055 6688Or you can visit: www.direct.gov.uk

Benefits may help you manage your finances more easily.

There is a range of benefits, tax credits and other financial support that you may be able to receive if you are unemployed and looking for work. It also provides you with additional income when your earnings are low, if you are bringing up children, are retired, caring for someone, are ill or have a disability.

Disability Living Allowance is a tax-free benefit for disabled children and adults to help with extra costs they may have because they are disabled. It is not based on your disability but the needs arising from it, for example, if you need someone to help look after you.

The online tool - DirectGov Benefits Adviser can help you find out what is

Money matters

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potential financial problems.If you’re in debt and finding it hard

to cope, it’s important to deal with the problem straight away - the longer you ignore your debts, the worse the situation becomes.

Managing your money, especially on a low income, is not always easy. If you are struggling, it is important to get help and advice as soon as possible. The CAB Advice Guide can give advice and you can get support from the local CAB offices.

If you are on a low income and receive a pension you may be entitled to pension credit. See the websites: www.adviceguide.org.uk, www.direct.gov.uk and www.firststopcareadvice.org.uk

Do you need advice on managing your money?

Keeping a regular eye on your personal finances will help you make the most of your money. Reviewing things like your bank accounts, mortgage, pension and savings will help make sure they’re still right for you. It will also alert you early to

Money management

can make sure your partner is provided for; and

• you can make sure you don’t pay more Inheritance Tax than necessary.

You can draft a will yourself or use a solicitor. If you choose to write your own will you can buy a form in the high street eg from WH Smith. If you choose to use a solicitor you can find a local firm on the following website, www.lawsociety.org.uk/choosingandusing/findasolicitor.law

Other useful websites: www.direct.gov.ukwww.ageuk.org.uk.

A will sets out who will benefit from your property and possessions (your estate) after your death.

Although you do not have to make one by law, it is the best way to make sure your estate is passed on to family and friends exactly as you wish. If you die without a will, your assets may be distributed according to the law rather than your wishes.There are many good reasons to make a will: • you can decide how your assets are

shared - if you don’t have a will, the law says who gets what;

• if you’re an unmarried couple (whether or not it’s a same-sex relationship), you

Legal advice

l l l l T: 01452 426868E: [email protected]

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Protecting vulnerable adults

harm or from being exploited.

This may be because they have:• a mental health problem; • a disability; • a sensory impairment; • some form of illness; or• are old and frail.

Far too many vulnerable adults suffer abuse, neglect and worse, often at the hands of relatives and care workers, those who you would least expect to treat them in that way. A vulnerable adult is a person aged 18 years or over who may be unable to take care of themselves, or protect themselves from

Keeping safe

What is adult abuse?

• another resident or service user; • an occasional visitor or someone who is

providing a service; or • someone who deliberately exploits

vulnerable people.

If you think someone is being abused call Gloucestershire County Council’s Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868. Your concerns will be taken seriously and will receive prompt attention.

If the abuse is also a crime such as assault, racial harassment, rape or theft you should involve the police to prevent someone else from being abused.

If the police are involved, the Adult Social Care Team will work with them and with you to support you.

Abuse is mistreatment by any other person that violates a person’s human and civil rights. The abuse can vary from treating someone with disrespect to causing actual physical suffering.

It can happen anywhere - in a care home, a hospital, in the workplace, at a day centre, at home or in the street. Abuse could be physical, sexual, psychological, emotional or financial.

The person who is responsible for the abuse is very often well known to the person abused and could be:

• a care worker or volunteer; • a health worker, social care or other

worker; • a relative, friend or neighbour;

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Staying safe in your home • a clear agreement in writing on the

work to be done and how much it will cost.

Trading Standards has No cold callers door stickers available for you and your neighbours, which may act as a deterrent. These are available from Trading Standards on 01452 426201.

If you live in Gloucestershire and are unsure how to handle a trader cold calling at your door or wish to report a rogue trader, contact Gloucestershire County Council on 01452 426201, or email [email protected]

Look on the Buy With Confidence website to find an accredited trader: www.buywithconfidence.gov.uk

Trading Standards regularly receive complaints from people who have had work carried out by rogue traders, especially doorstep sellers.

Sometimes traders will call at the door uninvited offering to carry out work on your house, such as repairs to driveways, guttering or your roof.

Do not feel that you have to open the door to any unknown caller. If you decide to have work done, do not agree until you have:• checked the trader’s name and address;• been given written notice of a right to

cancel; • checked the price by getting other

quotes; and

Smoke from a house fire can kill. After just two or three breaths of toxic smoke, you’re unconscious. Your lungs fill up and you can’t breathe. That’s why it’s so important to have a home safety check.

Gloucestershire Fire & Rescue Service has three dedicated community safety advisers who visit older and vulnerable adults at home and fit smoke alarms and discuss escape routes in case of fire. These checks and the smoke alarms are free of charge.

To arrange a home safety check call 0800 180 4140 or go to www.glosfire.gov.uk

If you have an electric blanket, you can have it checked by Gloucestershire Home Safety Check Scheme. Contact 01452 550575.

Are you safe from fire?

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Keeping safe at home - intruders and unwanted visitors

for more information and advice: www.gloucestershire.police.uk

If you are concerned about keeping safe from intruders and unwanted visitors, visit the Gloucestershire Police website

Housing with care Extra care housing

that meet the requirements of people who need care and support. For example, the bathrooms are fitted with walk-in showers to make it easier for older people to maintain their independence. Schemes usually have their own care staff and provide one or more meals each day. Extra care housing provides a real alternative to residential care for older people.

New forms of sheltered housing and retirement housing have been pioneered in recent years, to cater for older people who are becoming frailer and less able to do everything for themselves. These are known as ‘extra care’, ‘very sheltered’ or ‘assisted living’ developments (or schemes).

These schemes provide self-contained wheelchair-friendly accommodation

Sheltered (or retirement) housing

Sheltered housing for rent is owned and managed by councils and housing associations across the region. Sheltered housing is a practical step if you would like more security and companionship or wish to downsize from a larger home that has become difficult to manage. Private providers have also developed retirement housing for sale within the county. In a sheltered (or retirement) housing scheme you would live independently in a flat or bungalow built especially for older people within a larger complex, sometimes around a garden or communal facility and linked to a central control centre for security.

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Gloucestershire Care & Support Services Directory

For more information

Available from Gloucestershire County Council and published by Care Choices (who also produced this guide), the Gloucestershire Care & Support Services

Directory contains useful editorial and comprehensive lists of home care providers, care homes and care homes with nursing in Gloucestershire. Ask for a copy from the Adult Helpdesk on 01452 426868.

The Directory is also available on the website: www.carechoices.co.uk

This guide’s helpline

This guide’s free helpline provides an independent information and help service encompassing care, accommodation, funding and rights for older people. A personalised report can be generated for customers, providing details of all care homes or housing with

care schemes that meet their criteria, with supplementary information about choosing and funding.

Call 0800 389 2077 to build a profile of exactly what type of care you’re looking for, while taking into account your personal needs and interests.

The comprehensive guide to

choosing and paying for care / support

• Domiciliary care / support • Care homes • Specialist care • Useful contacts

Pittville Pump Room, Cheltenham

In partnership with

GloucestershireCare & Support Services Directory 2013/14

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Call and talk to one of our friendly professional team

Bluebird Care (North Gloucestershire)Suite 4, Westgate House, The Island, Gloucester GL1 2RUTel: 01452 414952 Email: [email protected]

Bluebird Care (Stroud & Cirencester)3b Nelson Street, Stroud GL5 2HL Tel: 01453 757 937 Email: [email protected]

www.bluebirdcare.co.uk

Care Visits at HomeWe care passionately

our staffOur staff are caring, trained to give medication and police checked.

alternativeBluebird Care offers a realistic cost effective alternative to residential care. With familiar friends, relatives and possessions around, Bluebird Care ‘just happens’.

What we offerWe offer everything from personal care to shopping, cleaning or social visits. In fact everything you need to stay in the comfort of your own home.

We deliver the following services:• Handyperson Service

Ramps, Grab Rails & Small Repairs

• Free Personal Advisor Guide you through any grants process

• Technical ServicePlans Drawings and Design

• Bathroom designWet Rooms/Level Access Showers

• Home from Hospital support

WORKING IN PARTNERSHIP WITH

This service is commissioned by NHS Gloucestershire,Gloucestershire County Council and the six Local Authorities.

[email protected]

For more information please contact:FREEPHONE0800 0323139

www.mearsgroup.co.uk

Crossroads Care Forest of Dean, your local Carers Support charity (no:1086841) and not for profit CQC registered care agency provide practical help and personal support to families and individuals both at home and out and about in the community.

Supporting your independence and choice through:• Personal care or domestic support

• Support to attend medical appointments & social events

• Active living day opportunities

• Carers respite – regular or one off

• Chosen provider for carers breaks and social support for Gloucestershire county council

For an informal chat contact 01594 823414 or email [email protected]

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DoCare believe that everyone has a right to support in their own home

✓ Do you or a relative need help with day to day tasks?

✓ Do you or a relative need support but want to keep your freedom and individuality?

✓ Would you like free help and advice to get the right support at home?

Head Offi ce: Griffi n Mill, London Road, Thrupp, Stroud, Gloucestershire GL5 2AZ

DoCare is accredited with the local authorities of Gloucestershire, South Gloucestershire, Bristol City and Oxfordshire and registered with the Care Quality Commission

Whether for yourself or a loved one DoCare can offer you the support you need and help make every day a better day.

Call us on 0333 700 0333 to qualify for your complimentary consultation. We will be delighted to come and meet you to discuss your needs so that we can help make every day a better day for you and your loved ones.

DoCare operates in Bristol, Cirencester, Cheltenham, Dursley, Stroud, Gloucester, Yate, Witney and surrounding areas.

Email: [email protected] Web: www.docare.co.uk www.facebook.com/DoCareLtd www.docare.co.uk www.facebook.com/DoCareLtd

www.badhampharmacy.co.uk

• Your medication is extremely visible and accessible with times clearly stated.

• You don’t need to worry about forgetting your medication as you can see at a glance which tablets you have taken.

• A dosette tray is safe, easy to use, compact, light-weight and bio-degradable.

• Best of all we can pick up your script from the surgery, order your medication, manufacture the box and deliver to your home for free.

Please telephone or visit your nearest branch for more details

Take control of your medication with a FREE weekly dosette tray.

Looking for care or support?For independent, impartial information on your care options, call this Directory’s helpline on freephone 0800 389 2077

Page 35: Gloucestershire Help to Live at Home Guide 2013/14

We offer a quality home care service tailored to meet the individual needs of our clients ‘the service user’We are a family run company with a wealth of care experience.

We understand peoples’ needs differ and are committed to supplying a service that is person centred; dedicated to meeting your specific needs.

We are able to help in all areas of care and support for example our services include:

• Personal care (bath/shower/wash)• shopping• sitting service• Prepare and serve meals• light house work• hygienically clean kitchen and bathroom• changing bed linen• Put to bed• laundry• overnight stays

We appreciate that when you have carers visiting it can often feel like you are losing control and your choices are being limited. We believe it is very important that you feel in control and have as many choices as possible and work hard to meet these objectives.

1a meadow road, cirencester, Gloucestershire Gl7 1ya

tel: 01285 640420www.carefulcareltd.co.ukemail: [email protected]

“ In all my dealings with Careful Care I have found everyone friendly, highly

competent and professional and couldn’t ask for better.”

feel free to contact us for an informal chat to discuss whether we are able to

meet your care needs or the care needs of a member of your family.

carers are trained in all aspects of care including dementia training and end of life qcf (nvq) training

is encouraged.

Page 36: Gloucestershire Help to Live at Home Guide 2013/14

SUPPORTING CARERS AND PEOPLE WITH CARE NEEDS IN GLOUCESTERSHIRE

Cirencester Stroud CheltenhamTel: 01285 650168Fax: 01285 885752Email: infociren@

crossroadscandeg.org.ukWeb: www.crossroadscandeg.org.uk

Tel: 01453 755999Fax: 01453 756999Email: infostroud@

crossroadscandeg.org.uk

Web: www.crossroadscandeg.org.uk

Tel: 01242 584844Fax: 01242 262908Email: infochelt

@crossroadscandeg.org.ukWeb: www.crossroadscandeg.org.uk

We offer a high quality range of care services including the following:

• Respite breaks for carers • 24/7 services• Personal care & support• Assistance with medication• Dementia care• Learning disability support• Palliative care• Shopping service• Meal preparation• Support with accessing appointments• Group activities, social events and outings• Night service• Light household duties• Holiday cover

DO YOU LOOK AFTER SOMEONE?

DO YOU NEED HELP?

We are a registered charity. Charity Number: 1111055

If you’re interested in our services please call our

referral service on

01453 768836