Customers as individuals

Caremark Kirklees treats its customers as individuals and when any new customer joins, they are carefully assessed, and a care plan is drawn up which is unique to their needs. For Jeremy Marks that support is as much to aid his mental well-being as it is the domestic help needed because of his physical health.

Matters came to light when a broken ankle meant Jeremy had to go into respite care as he could not get a wheelchair into his flat. 

He had a series of other health conditions including diabetes and arthritis which meant when he was able to walk again and return home it was recognised that he needed some day-to-day help with tasks such as shopping, lifting, cleaning and cooking. 

“I suffered from depression, basically didn’t go out at all, ate rubbish and put on weight which made me more depressed, it was a vicious circle” said Jeremy.

A social call was built into Jeremy’s plan to help him get out and about. It might be a walk in the park, an afternoon watching his beloved Huddersfield Giants play rugby league or a trip to the cinema. 

“The carers definitely help me to maintain an active life. There are times I am tempted just to slob in a chair, and they will get me up and moving.” he said. 

Jeremy, 53, has been using Caremark Kirklees for two years now and far prefers Caremark’s approach to that of other care companies he tried previously. 

“Other companies just seemed to employ anyone who applied whereas Caremark ensures they are people who are actually cut out to be carers, who will treat people with respect, act professionally. They do care, they chat and make you feel that you do matter.” 

A qualified horticulturalist, Jeremy is now able to volunteer at a local garden project. He is grateful for the support the carers offer in his battle to lose weight. 

“I do cook and if I text one of the carers who help with cleaning, they are happy to pick up some shopping on the way to see me. I can then do batch cooking of healthy meals to save time and money. “

“If I’m tempted to buy too many crisps or nuts or junk food, they’ll suggest something healthier which I appreciate.”