Carer’s spotlight – Anisa, Penny, Sharmin, Shannon
27 February 2025
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When Julia’s husband passed away in 2021, her close friend Dawn, who lives in Sheffield, began to notice changes in her well-being.
Shortly after experiencing pneumonia and a hospital stay, it became clear that Julia, who lives in Lichfield, needed additional support in her daily life.
Concerned for her safety and well-being, Dawn reached out for professional care services.
That is when Nexus Care Services stepped in.
Dawn recalls the moment she realised Julia needed help: “We came down to see her after she’d been in hospital, and she was cooking something. There was hardly any water in the pan, and it looked like everything was going to get burnt. We were just a little bit concerned.
“We already knew she had vascular dementia, and we thought, because of the shock of her husband passing, there was a decline. We initially employed someone just to come in and have a chat and a cup of tea. As things progressed, she needed a little bit more.”
Over time, Julia’s care needs increased. After experiencing two falls within a ten-day period in 2022, it became essential to have a more structured care plan. Nexus adapted seamlessly to these changes, increasing their support to three visits a day, seven days a week.
One of the standout qualities of Nexus Care Services is their flexibility and responsiveness. As Dawn explains: “If Julia’s been more poorly, we’ve stepped up the care. If she’s levelled out and seemed to be faring better, we’ve been able to adjust the care plan accordingly. It’s always been very flexible, and there’s never been a problem making changes when we need to.”
Whether it was adjusting the care plan for a cataract operation or ensuring medication was administered correctly after Julia began struggling with timing her doses, Nexus has provided consistent and adaptable support.
The Nexus team has continuously shown their dedication beyond the expected level of care. Dawn recalls an incident where a carer took Julia to the park during her own break:
“The carer was about to go on a break, but she messaged me and said, ‘I’m going to take Julia into the park. It is my break, but I really don’t mind.’ That was really lovely. I just thought that was fantastic.”
The personal touch extends to their proactive communication with Julia’s loved ones. Dawn appreciates how they keep her informed:
“When I ring them, they know who I am straight away. I don’t have to go into many details. It’s nice that we’ve got this good working relationship.”
Living in Sheffield while Julia remains in Lichfield, Dawn was initially concerned about being so far away and unable to check in regularly. However, Nexus has provided her with reassurance.
“We don’t have to worry every single day about whether she’s leaving the gas on or wandering,” says Dawn. “We’ve put other measures in, like a Ring doorbell and a camera inside, but having Nexus there gives us true peace of mind. I know she’s being looked after, even when I can’t just pop round.”
For Dawn, keeping Julia in her own home was always a priority. Thanks to the care provided by Nexus, this has been possible. “Allowing Julia to keep on living at home is really important,” notes Dawn. “That’s what she always wanted. On a good day, she’d still say the same. The care team facilitate that, and we don’t have to worry every single day.”
Beyond daily care, Nexus has also been there to assist with appointments and groceries, arranging transport and support for medical visits, or ensuring she has essential supplies.
Dawn has no hesitation in recommending Nexus Care Services:
“Absolutely,” she says. “I wish they were in Sheffield! I speak so highly of Nexus. Compared to other care organisations I’ve encountered, I am really pleased that Nexus is looking after Julia. We’ve been with them for nearly four years, and we have no regrets.”
Through their compassionate approach, Nexus Care Services have allowed Julia to maintain her independence while ensuring her safety and well-being.
Their flexible and professional team has made a lasting difference, offering peace of mind to her loved ones and delivering outstanding care every step of the way.
*Names have been changed to protect identities.
