Alex puts Diana on the right path

Diana lives alone and suffers from reduced mobility after suffering a stroke in the past and a heart attack last year. She approached BS3 Community looking for someone to support her to get out of the house and improve her confidence, becoming one of the first users of the new BS3 Community Care service that launched in July.

Diana said: “I just wanted someone that could help get me out of the house as I’m usually stuck inside on my own. More than anything, I wanted someone to support me to the local garden centre and have a pot of tea and cake with me… I read Alex’s profile on the BS3 Community Care website and thought she would be a great person to support me, as she has experience of working with Stroke. So, I asked Carla (Care & Wellbeing Manager) to introduce us.”

“My life has changed dramatically; I can’t tell you how happy I am. When I went out this week I cried because I can’t believe how much my life has changed in just a few weeks. Alex has given me my confidence back. I’m getting on with her so well. What I like about her, is she doesn’t barge in and just do things without asking. She understands disability and only steps in when I ask her to.”

Part of Diana’s recovery is ensuring that she is walking correctly, so Alex plays an important role in making sure her posture and gait is right. Diana chose Alex to help as she has experience of working with stroke patients. The social prescribing team at BS3 Community also helped source and purchase a mobility scooter to assist when she wants to travel further distances.

Alex has 12 years’ experience working and training in different areas of care. She enjoys gardening, cooking, DIY and the company of her two very lovely labradoodles.

Alex said: “I’m so happy that Diana now feels more able to take positive steps to move forward with her life. I’m glad she feels I have helped (maybe a little!) But it is her sheer determination that has brought her this far.”

For more information about how Alex and the BS3 Community Care service can help you visit www.bs3communitycare.org.uk