Malvern Home Support Service
Started in 2004, the Malvern Home Support Service provides emotional support and practical help to enable older people to remain living independently in their own homes. Funded by Friends of the Elderly with part funding by a Worcestershire County Council Access and Systems Capacity Grant as well as a grant from the Freemason’s Grand Charity, the service covers the Malvern Hills District area and is available on weekdays from 9.00am to 5.00pm.
The wishes of the client always have priority. Emotional support is constant and takes precedence over non-essential tasks.
"My mother had been experiencing forgetfulness and confusion ever since the death of my father two years ago and it was clear that she needed more support. Immediately when I met Friends of the Elderly, I knew your knowledge and expertise was just what was needed. Above all, you treated my mother as a whole person, examining what would enhance her life to enable her to continue living at home."
The service has a priority for people with mild to moderate dementia (diagnosed or suspected) and those who have depression. Although clients must be 60 years and over, there is no age restriction for people with dementia. The service is not appropriate for those whose only needs are cleaning and need no other support.
It is the aim of the Malvern Home Support Service to provide continuity by retaining motivated staff who build a caring relationship with each of their clients. All staff take part in regularly updated training programmes in which dementia figures strongly.
To ensure that we only help those who are most in need, the services take referrals from professional agencies only. These include Community Psychiatric Nurses, Specialist Workers for Older People and local branches of the Alzheimer’s Society.
For more information please telephone the Malvern Home Support Service Manager on 01684 897 797or email manager@mhss.fote.org.uk