Care Home

[jennyjoan]

As you know I visited my friend on Friday and sometimes I feel I could give an hour or so a week - would I have to go through vetting like that would be no problem but would the other carers like it.

The carers on Friday were simply superb and definitely love their patients so it was so rewarding to see.

What would you think.

[tonyav]

You probably would have to go through some vetting process ( even as a volunteer )jj. I doubt if the other carers would mind to much because you would be lightening their load.

[jennyjoan]

next time down I will ask to talk to the manager/manageress. Get advice from them.

[tonyav]

Thats the way to go, jj.

[roopower]

I suspect you would need police clearance, used to be called a CRB but think that has changed. I think I you need a certificate if 'working' with children or the elderly, you certainly did back in the day. Have a chat to the matron/ manager, I would think they'll be delighted to have you. Even if you just talk to residents or read post it lightens the carers load. I used to give my mum her meal and they were pleased to be freed up for someone else.

[jennyjoan]

Thanks Roo - it was a lady who doesn't speak cos my friend told me so indignantly. But with some encouragement from myself - she started to whisper her sister's name and her brother's name - then I told her my name. Goes back to the friend who is only a few chairs back and she said - no way no way she talks. So I called over to the lady in question and asked her to say my name and indeed she did. The carers don't have the time to give that kind of time.

The other things I can do is sorta lipread the dears and while they are whispering I can understand that "where's my handbag" and I gave it to them from the back of their wheelchair - "I am finished my tea" - I was able to take the cups off them.

I asked the first lady was she finished her tea as it was in a sippy cup - she never answered so I said well just say yes or no. And then she said "no" - it was a lovely feeling to get a response.