Spend their later years together

Both now in their nineties, Jack and Jenny Hepworth have lived in the same home since their wedding day more than 70 years ago. With the support of Caremark Barnsley, they are continuing to spend their later years together where they feel happiest – at that home which holds so many happy memories for them.

The couple were briefly separated three years ago when Jack needed time in a rehabilitation centre. This was after he suffered a mini stroke and heart attack and had to have a pacemaker fitted. The experience made Jenny even more determined that they should remain together at home for as long as possible.

“It was an awful three weeks,” said Jenny. “I said then to Jack, there’s no way you are going into residential care when we can look after you at home.”

Before Caremark Barnsley became involved, the couple tried another care company. Its team spent several hours a day at their home, but when Jenny asked to reduce the hours because she could manage many tasks herself, she was told that was not possible.

The carers are brilliant

“They were wanting to make meals for Jack and do other things which I was quite capable of doing. Often, they would just be sat around with nothing to do,” said Jenny.

“Caremark were fine about just doing the time that we needed them. If I try to do everything, I get exhausted, so having a little help from them is ideal.”

Our staff now visit in the morning and evening to help Jack get washed and dressed. Jenny continues to do everything else she can for Jack, supported by family members who visit every day.

“The carers are brilliant. They just get on with the job and are easy to talk with,” says Jenny.

“I’m the outspoken one. Jack is quiet, but when I’m in the other room I can hear him laughing and chatting with the carers. That is lovely.”

A love story spanning over 70 years

Jack and Jenny’s story began in 1953, when Jenny received a tap on the shoulder at the cinema from a lad asking whether his friend could sit next to her.

“I said, ‘If he wants,’ and that was it. We married three years later and have been together ever since,” says Jenny. “I can’t remember what the film was. I was obviously concentrating on something else!”

Jack was a miner throughout his working life and, once their three children had left school, Jenny worked as a caretaker at a local community centre. The couple enjoyed family holidays well into their eighties, including coach trips to Greece, Turkey and France.

Today, they look forward to family get-togethers at home, with a celebration planned for later this year to mark their son Stephen’s 60th birthday and the arrival of their first great-grandchild.

For Jenny, the difference Caremark Barnsley makes is simple but significant.

“Having Jack at home is the most important thing and Caremark help that happen,” says Jenny.

About Caremark Barnsley

If you, or someone you know, is struggling at home but don’t want to leave, please view our wide range of home care services in Barnsley.