New drop in centre gives carers a break

Bridge Street facility will provide care for older people

A new service has been set up in Chiswick that will look after older people while their carers take a break.

The service started this month at Chiswick Day Support Service – part of Chiswick Resource Centre - which is based in Bridge Street, off Chiswick High Road,

Staff there will look after older people for up to four hours giving carers an opportunity to fulfil appointments, do some shopping or catch up with friends.

Activities provided to older people include bingo, quizzes, games, lunches and knitting sessions.

Cllr Gurmail Lal, executive member for Supporting Vulnerable People, said: “This service will provide carers with somewhere to leave their loved ones safe in the knowledge that they will be well looked after and their needs will be met. It is all part of the Council’s commitment to carers and ensuring services are provided to meet their needs too.”

The service is for older people who are 65 and over who live in Hounslow and cannot be left alone because they will be at risk. It has been designed for carers who have personal commitments to meet, but cannot leave their relative on their own.

People who would like to use the service must register first, prior to a start date being set. Staff will complete a short assessment of the older person concerned to ensure the centre can meet their needs. People must arrange their own transport to the Centre.

To find out more, or to register, call Cynthia Page on 0208 995 6664

March 7, 2006