A referral to a new service run by Southend West Central Primary Care Network (PCN) has helped a Westcliff woman get her confidence back while undergoing treatment for cancer.
Gaynor Martin has always been a very active member of her community in Westcliff, but recently had found it hard to manage simple tasks like taking a shower and climbing the stairs following surgery and chemotherapy.
She was referred to the Southend West Central Primary Care Network Aligned Community Team (PACT) service, who assessed her and found she would need handrails installed in her bathroom and stairs.
The PACT team is able to help coordinate care for patients who may need help from multiple areas, in addition to supporting their healthcare needs. It aims to connect providers, resources and facilities to ensure a holistic, integrated care for the Southend West Central community.
PCN Paramedic Caroline Blyth-Cook said, “Mrs Martin was struggling with her mobility around the house and needed some help. We explored the regular routes, but found there was a long waiting list for someone to come out and help. We then contacted Leigh Lions, who came out within a week to install the necessary equipment.
Leigh Lions is a group which undertakes voluntary work and fund-raising for needy causes in the local area. Tim Watts from the group said, “We have a number of people in our group who are able to do this kind of work, so we were delighted to help.”
Mrs Martin said, “It might be just handrails, but being able to get around the house easily by myself has helped me work out my ‘new normal’ following my illness. It’s given me confidence and allowed me to accept how I am at the moment.”
Leigh Lions are looking for more volunteers to enable them to support more people in the local community. If you would like to find out more about how you can get involved, visit their website at leighlions.co.uk.
