As we launch our Caring at Christmas campaign, we want to share with you the story of Clare, a wonderful carer who needed our help recently. 

Clare’s Story

Recently, Clare had an accident that required surgery – and her thoughts immediately turned to her daughter Izzie.

Clare is Izzie’s sole carer, and Izzie’s complex needs meant that unless Clare could find the right day and night care for Izzie, surgery and recovery would prove impossible.

Clare shared her challenge with the Guideposts day service team who work with Izzie 4 days a week. They realised that this was a priority for both Clare and Izzie’s wellbeing, and immediately took action. 

“I don’t think I would have been able to recuperate as quickly – without Guideposts’ help it would have been too complicated.”

Within days they helped Clare to identify suitable respite care, and committed to work in close partnership with a respite home to make it work for everyone. Guideposts increased Izzie’s day support to 5 days per week, and also arranged to deliver her to and pick her up from the home, and keep in touch with Clare throughout to ensure her mind is at rest. 

“I trust Guideposts to get updates, and it’s something as small as that, that makes all the difference.”

Looking to the Future

The pandemic and the accident have caused Clare to think about her own, and Izzie’s, future more seriously. ”It made me decide. I deserve a life and my daughter deserves more independence. I love her. But she is going to end up in residential care when I die. Making a decision to look now, hopefully we can find her the right place, between us: that’s Guideposts, the respite home, my care manager, and me.” 

From this emergency situation, Clare has also found an improved care solution for Izzie and herself. Izzie now stays 2 nights a month at the respite home, and hopefully this will lead to a long-term option for Izzie’s future. 

Can you help?

Guideposts is committed to continue supporting Clare to find the right support for her daughter.

Please help us to continue to help carers like Clare.

You can give to our Carers at Christmas campaign online or call us on 01993 893560.