Age UK launches new care at home service

Age UK North Tyneside has launched EveryDay, an independent care at home service to help people keep their independence and stay at home for longer.

The new social enterprise has a unique social purpose – to donate money back to charity and to help older people make more of life.

EveryDay will offer its care and support services to anyone over the age of 18, and be expanding its work beyond North Tyneside to the wider Tyneside area.

Kerry Parker, EveryDay’s head of Care at Home Services, said: “EveryDay is just that – every day; a service that is available around the clock, 365 days a year. We are here for anyone 18 years and over, to help people continue to live independently in their own homes, and we offer all levels of care from that little bit of help with shopping and cleaning for the busy professional to substantial care and support for people living with high levels of physical and mental health needs.

“We understand that choosing the right type of care is a tough decision for everyone involved and it’s our commitment to be there for the whole family whenever and however they need us. If you’re not sure where to start or what you need, we’re just at the other end of the phone to offer free and confidential advice.”

Thirty-two-year-old Donna Campbell from Wallsend, is cared for by EveryDay. She has spina bifida, which seriously affects her mobility and spent a substantial amount of time in hospital recently following a major operation related to her condition. When she came home, she found that she was unable to do the things she previously enjoyed.

She said: “The company has been very supportive to me. I felt really vulnerable when I came out of hospital and things have been tough, but with the care and support from my personal support assistant, Claire, I feel like I’ve got my confidence back. She never lets me feel down about anything and showed me that even though I’d been through a lot, I could still do everything I’d done before. We’re about the same age too and have lots in common, which really helps.

“I’m absolutely certain that without Claire’s support, I wouldn’t be back to my old self like I am today. I feel so lucky to have such great, professional support around me and know that whatever is round the corner, I’m not on my own.”

Alma Caldwell, group chief executive at Age UK North Tyneside and EveryDay, said that the new social enterprise “ties in closely with our ambitions for the next five years”.

“We look forward to working together with our partners, staff, volunteers, customers and the wider community, to offer the best possible service and open up even greater opportunities to everyone we support.”

There is increasing demand for care and support services, but many people are unsure where to start when it comes to making the decision about accessing support. As part of its service, EveryDay has been set up to provide free advice and guidance to anyone who has any questions about what support is available.

EveryDay provides support services in the home, including personal care, help around the home, home from hospital support, specialist health care, end of life care and free information and advice.