Mrs Poole's story

Mrs Poole* first contacted Age Concern Harrow because of issues relating to her poor health which had got so bad that she could no longer leave her house.

Trapped in her house Mrs Poole felt more and more isolated and anxious. But when, after listening to Mrs Poole's situation an adviser at Age Concern Harrow helped her apply for an attendance allowance, Mrs Poole successfully claimed for weekly visits from a carer. 

The adviser also put Mrs Poole in touch with Age Concern Harrow's Handyperson project which helps older people in the borough with non-emergency DIY jobs in their homes.  Through this scheme Mrs Poole has had grab rails fitted in her bathroom, which means she can move around independently with more confidence. 

In an effort to reduce her sense of isolation, the adviser applied for a Taxicard on Mrs Poole's behalf. The Taxicard is a government subsidised door-to-door transport service for people with impaired mobility and, thanks to this, Mrs Poole is now able to attend art classes once a week. In fact, she enjoys going to the art classes so much that she is now looking for another activity or club to join.

*_{Name has been changed, photo posed by model.}

Older people like Mrs Poole, and carers, are being helped to access good quality care through direct payments, and supported by advocacy services by Age Concern London along with 15 partner Age Concerns in a number of London boroughs. London Councils helps fund these services