Victoria’s story

Living 90 miles away with children still at school, Victoria* was concerned about her mother living alone.

After joining a Facebook group local to the area, she saw that someone had recommended Nexus Care Services. Curious to know more, she visited the website and had a look at the case studies.

“They looked good and very professional,” she explained. “I could see it was a family business, not a nationwide company, which I liked. Overall, the website was very impressive, and I rang them for more information. They were very easy-going and encouraged me to get in touch.”

This being the first time Victoria had ever arranged care for someone, she wasn’t sure how to proceed– especially since her mother doesn’t require personal care.

“I was initially unsure as to how they could help, because Mum can still look after herself, but she lives alone and finds it difficult to get out.”

Victoria was pleased to receive proactive advice from Nexus.

“During the initial meeting with my Mum, Sam took care to fully understand her and her needs. He also made suggestions as to how Nexus could offer support.

“His relaxed and flexible approach meant that Mum felt in control.”

At first, Nexus arranged one social visit a week from a carer, stepping up to two visits a week after a month.

Victoria says this ‘gently-gently’ approach enables her mother to still feel independent.

“She’s just getting a little bit of help rather than someone coming in and taking over.”

After just a short time, Victoria’s mother has built a very good relationship with her carer Emma.

“The excellent carer Sam chose to help my Mum has already built a trusting and friendly relationship with her after only two visits.

“She looks forward to the social interaction. If she needs something doing or needs to talk to someone, she knows Emma is coming, which provides security and reassurance.”

Victoria explains that her mother’s relationship with Emma now extends to the organisation – meaning that if Emma is unable to visit (due to holiday or sickness, for example), “Mum trusts that Nexus will send good people.”

Victoria has also gained peace of mind knowing that her mother is getting crucial socialisation.

“I enlisted Nexus Care Services because I felt that Mum’s quality of life would benefit from some initial support. For me, it means the days the carers visit punctuate her week, making sure she has regular contact and social interaction on days she wouldn’t normally. Because I don’t live close to Mum, it’s provided reassurance that there’s somebody else there.

“I’ve felt less stressed and more reassured – it just takes the pressure off.”

Although her mother is currently independent and can care for herself, Victoria does anticipate future care needs. Her mother has an upcoming operation and has been referred for dementia tests due to memory problems.

“There’s the reassurance that, in the future, if things become more difficult – with Mum’s operation coming up – we’ve got that existing relationship with Nexus. They’re very flexible – we can contact them if Mum needs more care support.”

When asked if she would recommend Nexus Care Services, her answer was clear: “Absolutely.”

“They are very professional and very responsive to contact and making changes. They also provide a very personal service.

“They take their care very seriously – coming out to meet you, being adaptable, offering advice as to how they can help.

“I am confident that Nexus can provide a high standard of care to meet Mum’s current and future needs.”

*Names have been changed to protect identities.