Care specialist business owner praises Eastbourne community during crisis

The Home Instead Senior Care Eastbourne and Hailsham owner Ian Cottrell said he is impressed by the many ways communities are helping and has offered some more ideas today (Wednesday) in this time of need.

Ian said, “Our job at Home Instead Senior Care Eastbourne and Hailsham is to care for people in their own homes and we shall continue to do that.

“We want to encourage people to spread kindness during these uncertain times. Please always remember to take extra care to protect yourself and those who are isolating.

“We have already seen a tremendous amount of support coming from members of the community, but we thought we would also share a few more suggestions.

“Some of the ideas, which all require keeping at least a two-metre distance or leaving items on the doorstep, include:

“Delivering a nutritious meal – we all love having a tasty meal prepared for us. When prepping your family meal, why not make an extra portion and drop it round to your neighbour or someone in need in your community?

“Pick up something extra – with social isolation, older people are going to be in need of supplies. Why not pick up extra supplies for your family and neighbours when out shopping.

“Random acts of kindness – we all love a bunch of spring flowers, a box of chocolates or a food hamper full of goodies. Surprise a person in your area with one of these – on their doorstep – it’s sure to brighten their day to know others are thinking of them.

“Arrange a rota – if you know a few older people on your street, why not arrange a weekly rota, to ensure they are getting some form of contact each day.

“You can take turns making a phone calls or video calls, picking up essentials or cooking that extra meal for those who are vulnerable in your area.

“Singing – who says carolling is only for Christmas? Gareth Malone has launched a digital music project to allow people to sing together while they are social distancing during the coronavirus outbreak. Visit decca.com/greatbritishhomechorus/ to get involved.”

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As well as informally helping others, you may be looking for a new and rewarding job making a real difference in your community. Please get in touch with Home Instead Eastbourne & Hailsham about a career as a caregiver. The care at home company is recruiting caregivers to provide vital help and support to older people during this uncertain time and into the future. Call 01323 376634 today.

Photo caption: Soraya and Ian Cottrell (central); owners of Home Instead Senior Care Eastbourne & Hailsham, with some of their caring team.