by Izzy Partridge
Marie Curie Healthcare Assistant – South East
A few years ago I cared for an elderly man who lived with his wife. They were one of those lovely old couples who make you want to be like them when you’re that age. They didn’t have any children, but had lived a great life together – going on holiday and really living life to the full.
They were still very affectionate, she would sit and hold his hand; they’d have a little kiss and cuddle in his bed together. Sometimes people seem afraid to touch their loved ones when they are ill, like they are too fragile to hug, so it was lovely to see.
As the catalogue of evidence to the negative health and social effects of loneliness continues to build, millions of pounds have been pledged to grassroots projects across Yorkshire working with those suffering from the blight of loneliness.
While some local authorities and charities have seen their social care spending slashed, projects in Sheffield, Leeds and North Yorkshire have benefitted from £13m in spending specifically aimed at loneliness and social isolation.
The mental health trust for Norfolk and Suffolk is being recommended to be placed in special measures after being rated inadequate.
The Norfolk and Suffolk Foundation Trust was “not a safe, effective or responsive service”, said the Care Quality Commission.
The report said there were also concerns about a lack of beds and “urgent action” was needed.
The trust said it would improve services and put patients first.
