Leading franchiser Home Instead were overjoyed to be given
the opportunity to talk to Prince William about their experiences of delivering
care during the dark days of Covid-19.
In the midst of all the doom and gloom surrounding the on-going Coronavirus pandemic, leading franchiser Home Instead were thrilled to receive a Royal seal of approval by the Duke of Cambridge.
Home Instead, whose UK headquarters are in Warrington, was one of five organisations asked to participate in a recent video call with HRH.
This 10-minute meeting, which was arranged by The
Care Workers’ Charity at Prince William’s behest, gave Home Instead the opportunity to chat about the issues and experiences being faced by carers in these tough times.
Home Instead‘s representative for this momentous occasion was Suraya Alvi, who is a senior caregiver at their Stockport office.
In addition to Suraya, four other key workers from the care sector were involved in this once in a lifetime meeting, which was conducted via the video communication software Zoom.
The Duke of Cambridge was keen to hear about the experiences of those delivering care on the frontline during the pandemic.
He was also interested to learn about how life had changed for those looking after the elderly, as well as the impact Covid-19 was having on the wellbeing of carers.
Suraya told Prince William: “The main thing we face is uncertainty from clients.
“We aim to reassure them that we will still provide the best level of care regardless of the pandemic.”
As for the emotional turmoil experienced by both clients, as well as carers, Suraya told HRH: “We have a support system at the office and wellbeing sessions, and you can always pick up the phone and chat to people.
“The office sends thank-you notes and leaves gifts on our doorsteps. The main thing is keeping well emotionally, and that can be really tough.”
The Care Workers’
Charity exists to support current and former care workers with one-off crisis grants and advice.
And their executive director, Karolina Gerlich, remarked: “It was a fantastic opportunity to shine a light on the amazing work of care workers, and we really appreciate Suraya’s input from a home care point of view.
“HRH took time to find out what it was like working in care, hear some of the challenges and recognise the important job they do.”
Ruth Brown, Home Instead‘s business development director, also paid tribute to Suraya saying: “She represented our brand and her 9,000 colleagues across the network so well.
“We are honoured to have been selected to take part in the call.
“The pandemic has highlighted the invaluable contribution made by so many people working in social care.
“In making this call, the Duke of Cambridge is helping to raise awareness of the work we do, while also sending a clear message about the importance of mental wellbeing.
“We are immensely proud of all our franchise teams across the UK who are providing such a vital service caring for our older generation.”