All it takes is a Conversation
October 28, 2025Posted by:
“It’s good to know what you offer.” – Mr. J’s story
When Mr. J contacted our Carers Hub, it wasn’t because things were falling apart. In fact, he told us things were going well.
He was signposted to us from the Alzheimer’s Society after his wife was diagnosed with dementia. She also lives with heart disease, kidney disease, and arthritis. Mr. J is her main carer, and despite living with multiple sclerosis himself and sometimes needing a wheelchair, he’s managing day-to-day life with remarkable strength and grace.
He helps his wife with medication, choosing clothes, preparing meals and drinks, shopping online, and managing their paperwork and finances. She remains independent with personal care, including using the toilet and managing a urine bottle overnight. Together, they’ve found a rhythm that works.
But Mr. J knows that things can change, and he wanted to be ready.
During our triage call, we didn’t just tick boxes. We had a real conversation. We talked about:
- The Carers Emergency Scheme, and how it could offer peace of mind if something unexpected happened.
- Financial support options like Attendance Allowance and council tax reduction, which could ease some pressure.
- Transport, now that his wife has stopped driving, and how they might adapt.
- Simple but effective dementia-friendly strategies, like using a whiteboard to leave notes when Mr. J goes to his local book club.
- The importance of early planning with family, especially his daughter-in-law, who holds power of attorney and is helping with benefit applications.
Mr. J didn’t need urgent help. He needed space to ask questions, to think ahead, and to feel reassured. And that’s exactly what he got.
At the end of the call, he said:
“Thanks very much for calling, it’s good to know what you offer.”
This story is a reminder that support doesn’t have to wait for a crisis. Sometimes, a single, well-timed conversation can help carers feel more confident, more informed, and more prepared, just when they need it most.
October 28, 2025Posted by:
