A good carer

Diane Bigmore knows what it takes to be a good carer – she worked in home care support herself for many years.

Previously Diane has been a very active person, working as both a carer and cleaner and enjoying trips away.

However, a stroke 11 years ago along with bleeding on the brain transformed her life and meant she was no longer able to work and found herself confined to home.

When a neighbour she depended on for morning assistance started a new job there were fears Diane might not be able to continue living at home.

She turned to Caremark Leeds Bradford, a plan was drawn up and now thanks to daily visits by home care and the support of family, Diane can continue to live in her home.

Each morning a carer visits Diane, 55, to help her get up, washed and dressed and ready for the day. Her two sisters and nieces visit regularly to take her shopping or for a trip out.

“It’s lovely to have the carer pop in each morning, I feel safe,” said Diane. “I look forward to seeing them and having a chat about what’s going on.”

Once she’s up and ready Diane is able to look after herself at home and enjoys playing solitaire or watching Netflix. Her current favourite is “The I-Land.”

“I do miss being able to work and travelling but at least I have my own home,” said Diane. “I know from my time as a carer that you have to be caring and understanding and they are.”

She added: “I’m hoping to move into a bungalow which will be easier, but I’ll be taking Caremark with me. They have been brilliant.”