A CUMBRIAN home care company is highlighting the need to be aware of mental health issues in the older generation.

It is generally assumed that users of home care services must be physically frail, or in some way disabled, and unable to carry out their normal day-to-day tasks for themselves.

While this is certainly the situation in many cases, there is a growing concern that elderly people with mental health issues are in need of help, but are not asking for it.

Bellcare, a Home Care company based in Workington, is launching a campaign to encourage people to ‘open up’ if they are struggling.

It’s not only physically compromised older people who might benefit from visits from their dedicated staff, but those suffering from anxiety, depression, or other emotional problems.

Bellcare staff are trained to help with a range of issues – and know that, sometimes, just being available to listen when they call in to see someone, can make an enormous difference to that person’s mental health.

Older people often don’t see mental health issues as something they can’t talk about, and may hide the fact that they are suffering from anxiety or depression. They may feel embarrassed at admitting that they are experiencing problems, and see it as a sign of weakness.

The friendly, caring Bellcare team are in a perfect position to help those who may be feeling lonely or isolated – often a trigger of poor mental health.

It’s not only practical assistance that Bellcare provides – it’s a cheery, friendly face on a regular basis, and building a relationship that encourages openness which enables them to help.

Knowing that families will worry about loved ones if they are not close enough to visit regularly, Bellcare is introducing a “Bellcare Buddy” system. In instances where their clients are alone, or living some distance away from their families, they can benefit from having a “Bellcare Buddy” visit, just for a chat and company for a short time, at no cost to themselves.

Bellcare promotes a positive team spirit within its staff, and is always happy to accept enquiries from people who might be interested in joining their dedicated and caring team.

If you think you are the sort of caring person who could bring a smile to the face of someone who is struggling mentally or physically, then talk to Bellcare.

You will be in a job where you will be well looked after and supported, and that offers true satisfaction, good rates of pay, as well as paid mileage and travel time.

If you would be interested in finding out more, please look on the website, or phone 01900 872030 to speak to a member of the team or to arrange to visit.

The company covers Whitehaven, Workington, Maryport, Cockermouth, Wigton, Aspatria, Silloth, Keswick and Penrith, and all the surrounding areas.

News and Star: