“A lightbulb going on in a very dark tunnel,” is how a carer at an all-time low described the support she received from a Fife project.
Jacqueline Towers told of the help given to her as Fife Health and Social Care Partnership supports this year’s Carers Week which runs from Monday June 12 by highlighting help available locally.
It comes as it has been revealed a new Victoria Hospital-based outreach service for carers, which ensures appropriate support is in place when loved ones are discharged, has seen around 30 people in its first two months.
Jacqueline first met hospital carer support worker Sandra Morrison while sitting at her mum’s bedside.
“Having Sandra step into my life was like a lightbulb going on in a very dark tunnel,” she said.
“I have been coping for years with my mum and dad’s progressively deteriorating health.
“When mum was diagnosed with a terminal illness and supporting my dad with ailing health I hit an all-time low.
“I was no longer coping, I was surviving, but I never thought to ask for help or even consider why I would, let alone have the time or energy to arrange it.”
The help she received was likened to a “balloon deflating” as Sandra helped navigate forms, allowances entitlements and carers.
But more importantly Jacqueline said Sandra uttered three vital words, “I hear you”.
“This is powerful and goes way beyond just support,” Jacqueline said.
Urging carers to take up the help available, she added: “It’s the difference between struggling and having a life to live.”
Sandra added: “The cares service, in partnership with Fife Carers, was introduced as a direct result of engaging face to face with 50 carers and patients.”
Pop up information sessions will run at the main entrance at the Victoria Hospital from 1.30pm to 3.30pm on Monday June 12 and 9.30am to 12noon on Friday June 16 and at Queen Margaret Hospital phase two day hospital entrance from 12 noon to 2.30pm on Tuesday June 13 .
