Specialist care services

Time to rest and recharge is essential so that you can continue to give your best care. ​ Short breaks can be of great benefit to the person you care for too. They offer the person the opportunity to do something a bit different from their usual routine and the chance to meet new people. ​ We provide respite care for people with complex needs in the comfort of their own living environment. From a sitting service for a couple of hours to 24 hour, domiciliary care. Our personalised care and support gives you and your loved one the service you want, in the way you are both comfortable with. Our reliable, compassionate staff are fully trained, so that you have the peace of mind you need to take that much needed break. ​ Contact us to discuss how we can create a bespoke service to meet your needs.

We provide you with an alternative to a residential or nursing home. Having carers that live with you, in your home, providing round-the-clock support. This allows you to stay in your own home, follow your own routines, keep your garden and pets, keep up with your friends and neighbours and live your life just as you want – for a cost equivalent to, or lower than, many residential homes. ​ Live-in care can work out cheaper than most good care homes The cost of live-in care is in the region of £900 to £1,300 per week. The savings are considerably more when a couple both need care as they can share one live-in carer, rather than paying two care home fees. It is also a lot cheaper than having three carers working in eight-hour shifts. ​ Maintaining your independence Recent research suggests that those receiving live-in care are less likely to fall, and far less likely to have a hip fracture than people in residential and nursing homes. But it's not just physical health, our research shows that people with live-in care are happier. ​ How do I pay for care? We know that care is expensive, whether a few hours a day from a reputable local agency or a full-time carer from us. A live-in carer from us will generally cost between £900 to £1,300 a week, depending on the management model. We make no charge for registration or for visiting you to assess your needs and wishes. After our visit, or after a detailed telephone call with you, we can give you a much closer estimate of costs, which vary depending on the level of care needed. As care needs increase, so will the cost. ​ You may qualify for some help from the state but many people have too much free capital (over £23,000), have too much income (over £250 per week), or do not have “substantial” care needs. Therefore a lot of people have to pay their care costs without financial help from your local authority. If you think that you do qualify for local authority help, it is important to contact them as soon as possible. ​ If one spouse is more dependent than the other, they may decide that the dependent spouse must pay for the majority of domestic and care costs, but there may be the possibility of becoming eligible for local authority help. ​ Contact us to discuss how we can create a bespoke service to meet your needs.

We provide a helping hand for elderly people who are still living independently and require assistance to manage their daily routines. ​ Our fully screened home-helpers are DBS checked and are always on hand with a friendly approach so you can be confident you can continue to manage your day-to-day life and tasks, whilst maintaining your independence and dignity. We aim to always provide you with the same home-helper for all your domestic needs, so they become a real friend who you can call upon whenever you need them. The ad-hoc and regular services we offer are as follows: ​ Domestic tasks and meal preparation We assist with washing and ironing, cleaning, vaccuming and dusting, to help you to keep on top of these on a day to day basis. We assist with meal preparation, taking into account your individual tastes and any dietary/allergy requirements. ​ Shopping Sometimes it’s difficult to get out to the shops, particularly in the cold weather or if you’re feeling a little off-colour. We can either take you shopping, or take your shopping list and do it for you, if you prefer. ​ Small maintenance jobs When you’re living alone some maintenance tasks can be tricky. If you need some help with changing light bulbs or doing small repairs, we can provide peace of mind and help you to keep your home in full working order. ​ Providing company Sometimes having someone to sit and chat, watch a film or go out for a walk with can be just what you need to brighten up your day. Our home-helpers will spend time with you doing whatever you feel like doing, providing the company and reassurance you need. ​ Providing transport We understand how important it is to stay in touch with friends and continue to attend social activities. We can provide safe transport and accompany you to social activities, day trips or appointments you may need to attend. ​ Dog walking Dogs need physical and mental stimulation and can get frustrated if they’re not able to be walked regularly, which often leads to behavioural problems. If you have a dog but can’t always get out to give it the exercise it needs, we can walk it for you. ​ Senior sitting If your usual home-helper or family member is unavailable or going away for a period of time, we can provide cover, whether it’s for a couple of hours or entire days to cover any holidays etc.

Having a physical disability should not prevent you from leading a full and active life where you are involved in your local community. We can provide home care and support so that you can live the life you choose, where each day can be different. We focus on your strengths and abilities to achieve your personal goals: ​ • Manage your responsibilities - go to work and keep on top of day-to-day living tasks • Keep connected - meet friends and family, go to school, college or clubs, pursue a favourite hobby • Keep fit and healthy - attend medical appointments, eat well or go to a fitness centre • Stay independent - take a trip to town to do the shopping and pay bills • Maintain your daily routine - get up and go to bed • Keep your home clean and tidy – help with domestic chores like washing and ironing We can pop in once or twice a week or provide up to 24 hour home care. Our care workers have practical experience of meeting a wide range of complex care and support needs. They are fully trained to respond to different communication needs, physical disabilities and sensory impairments.

People have the right to choose where they wish to spend the last days of their lives. For many people this will be to remain at home in familiar surroundings. ​ We will design an end of life care plan with you. Providing a care service that will be tailored to meet your specific needs and preferences. ​ Our team will work with health professionals and other people who are involved in your care and support to manage your symptoms, maintain your dignity and keep you as comfortable as possible. ​ Our trained and caring team will be with you every step of the way. ​ Contact us to discuss an end of life care and support service for you.

We know how important it is to provide person centred care and support those suffering from cognitive impairments such as Alzheimer’s disease. We strive to help people manage this progressive condition in their own home for as long as possible, to avoid or delay the move to residential care or nursing homes. ​ Alzheimer’s disease is the most common form of dementia and affects one in three people over the age of 65 years. It is not an inevitable consequence of ageing. It is caused by a physical disease which progressively attacks the brain. The symptoms include: ​ • Memory loss • Difficulty with speech and understanding • Periods of mental confusion • Changes in behaviour and emotional responses • Problems with movement • Increased apathy • Loss of confidence ​ Alzheimer's services We offer a range of services to support people with Alzheimer’s so you are able to be as independent as possible and live the life you choose. We believe in working in partnership with you, your family and other care professionals to provide personalised care and support. ​ One of our specialist members of staff will arrange a visit to create a unique care and support plan with you. As each person is affected differently, the plan will support you to achieve your specific goals and aspirations, developing a good relationship with you so they can better understand what is important about the way you wish to live your life. We find out about how you like to communicate, keeping you in control of your care and support as much as possible.

The impact of dementia can be a devastating time for anyone. We provide caring and sensitive domiciliary care support to help people live well with the condition. ​Dementia is a cruel disease that destroys brain cells. Gradually as one loses the ability to remember, plan, use language and control the body, life can become frightening. We understand the significant adjustments you will have to make and make it our goal to help you maintain your confidence, independence and lifestyle. Providing much needed support to family carers at the same time. We talk to you and your family to find out what is important to you, what you can do and what you would like to achieve from your care and support.

Our care team have great experience in dealing with behavioural needs, complex health needs, sensory impairment and physical disabilities. ​ We offer temporary care while a parent or guardian is in hospital or recovering from an illness, or longer term support for a child with disabilities or special needs. ​ Our care packages are tailored to meet your specific requests, including: ​ • Getting ready for school or college in the mornings • One-to-one support at school • Shopping trips, social or cultural events, leisure and sport • Help with personal care, meals and feeding • Attending medical appointments • Doing activities at home • Getting ready for bed and perhaps a bedtime story • Supporting the family to establish daily routines We see every child as unique so before our service begins we will spend time getting to know about them: ​ • How they communicate • Their particular needs and how you prefer these to be met • Their likes and dislikes •The things that are important to them ​ All our staff are rigorously vetted and your child’s safety and well-being is our utmost priority. Our staff are selected carefully to provide your child with the continuity of care they need. ​ Contact us to discuss a care and support service for you and your child.

We can support you to live the life you want, where each day can be different. By focusing on your unique strengths and abilities, our aim is to help you achieve your personal goals. We can develop a personalised support plan with you, so you can receive your care in the community where you live. ​ • Keep connected - meet friends and family, go to school, college or clubs, pursue a favourite hobby • Keep fit and healthy - attend medical appointments, eat well or go to a fitness centre • Stay independent - manage money, take a shopping trip to town or pay bills • Maintain a daily routine - get up and go to bed • Keep your home clean and tidy – help with domestic chores like washing and ironing ​ We can pop in once or twice a week or provide up to 24 hour care. Our care workers have practical experience of meeting a wide range of complex care and support needs for people receiving care in the community. They are fully trained to respond to different communication needs, autistic spectrum disorders, physical disabilities and sensory impairment. ​ Contact us to discuss a learning disabilities care and support service for you.

Living with Parkinson's disease can be emotionally, socially and physically demanding. Our experienced domiciliary care staff can provide you and your family with home care. ​ What is Parkinson’s disease? Parkinson’s is a common nervous system disorder amongst the elderly population. It is more prelavent in people over the age of 50, and can also affect younger adults if it is in the family. Nerve cells in the brain use a chemical called dopamine to help control muscle movement. In this condition, nerve cells that make dopamine are destroyed, meaning the brain is unable to send proper signals to the rest of your muscles. What are the symptoms? Many notice symptoms for some time prior to Parkinson's being diagnosed. These include aching, stiffness or a mild tremor and a general feeling of tiredness and weakness. Although there is no known cure, an early diagnosis is important so you can receive the right treatment, support and domiciliary care so you can continue living as normal a life as possible. The progression of this disease and the impact will vary for each person and can affect one or both sides of the body. Some symptoms are physical; such as tremors or involuntary shaking, slowing or stopping of movements and increasing stiffness, causing difficulties with automatic responses such as blinking or walking, swallowing, talking, balance and co-ordination. Other symptoms may be less obvious but are just as debilitating such as bowel and bladder problems, difficulty sleeping and more. Supporting you and your family Domiciliary care and support can help to manage the symptoms of Parkinson's. Medicines are used to increase the levels of dopamine in the brain, physiotherapy and speech therapy. Lifestyle changes such as regular exercise and good nutrition and hydration are lifestyle changes that also help.We support you by listening to what is important to you and the goals that you wish to achieve. We come up with a domiciliary care plan that details how we will provide a specialised service that is tailored to your individual needs. Our support, in your own home, includes: ​ • Support to continue with your social activities • Cognitive stimulation such as reading or talking • Assistance with everyday tasks from getting dressed to help getting into bed. • Making sure you have the correct medication and that it is taken as regularly as needed • Assistance with keeping a healthy diet and to keep hydrated • Assistance with housework including laundry and shopping •Help with exercises to increase mobility and maintain strength. Or up to 24 hour domiciliary care to give families and carers the opportunity to take a break. Find out more about Parkinson’s disease from Parkinson’s UK.Contact us to discuss a Parkinson’s Disease care and support service for you.

Knee and hip joint replacements take a lot of time to heal. Post surgery, you will most likely need some assistance with everyday living tasks. We provide you with a bespoke home care service, enabling you to get the extra care and support you need. Our post-operative home care helps you to feel healthy and back on your feet again. ​ Support to stay well Our services include: ​ • Someone to stay with you after surgery for a few weeks • Helping you wash as it can be difficult bending and stretching • Helping you get dressed and into and out of bed. • Light exercise to help you get mobile again. • Housework, cooking and shopping • Going with you to out-patient appointments for wound inspection or to have stitches removed. • Help with medicine so you are free of discomfort and infection risk. • Communicationw with medical professionals to make sure you have the right aids at home. ​ You can find reliable up to date information about recovering from a knee or hip replacement on the NHS website. Contact us to discuss a knee or hip joint replacement care and support service for you.

Our team at Cott's Care understand the social, emotional, and practical challenges of living well with dementia. The world of the person with dementia and their family carers gradually shrinks upon the progression of the disease. The maintenance of a life outside your home or indeed sharing the closeness you once had together can prove difficult. This together with the demands of practical care and support can leave you feeling isolated and exhausted. We sensitively respond to your needs and family members with our flexible services tailored to fit with your chosen lifestyle, allowing you to continue to enjoy the important things in your life. ​ What is the difference between Alzheimer’s disease and dementia? The terms ‘dementia’ and ‘Alzheimer’s disease’ are often confused. Dementia is a specific group of diseases which all cause a serious decline in brain function. Alzheimer’s disease is one specific type of dementia, and is the most common form. Type of dementia & effects on the brain ​ Alzheimers • The majority of cases of dementia care needed for elderley and older people are caused by Alzheimer’s disease. • Chemical and structural changes cause brain cells to die. Multi-infarct or vascular dementia. • The second most common form of dementia. • The person experiences strokes, preventing oxygen reaching the brain causing the brain cells to die. Dementia with Lewy bodies. • This is rarer, and affects only 4% of the total number of people with dementia • Abnormal protein deposits called Lewy bodies exist in the brain, and can be misdiagnosed as Parkinson’s disease because the symptoms are similar. Fronto-temporal dementia for example Pick's disease • Typically affects those of 45-65 years of age. • Caused by a build-up of abnormal proteins in the brain which then leads to the progressive loss of brain cells. ​ Dementia is sometimes thought of as an inevitable ’fact’ of aging. Dementia is not caused by age, although the likelihood of diagnosis does increase with age. Dementia can affect younger adults just as much as older people. ​ Currently, there are approximately 800.000 people with dementia in this country and this figure is predicted to increase to over 1m by 2021. Approximately 17,000 people under 65 have a form of dementia. Approximately 25% of people between the ages of 70 and 79 years are affected, rising to one in six for people who are over the age of 80. Signs and symptoms of dementia The signs and symptoms of dementia may be different depending upon the type of dementia and the area of brain cells affected. For example: Fronto-temporal dementia most commonly affects the frontal and temporal lobes of the brain (the front and sides). The front of our brain is mostly used for planning, organising and regulating our behaviour. Therefore, this area being affected is likely to result in personality and behaviour change e.g. loss of inhibitions, becoming more impulsive or being withdrawn. If the temporal lobes, that organise memory and language, are affected, disease in this area is more likely to cause difficulty communicating and remembering. ​ Those with dementia with Lewy bodies often experience fluctuating cognition and recurring hallucinations. Unfortunately dementia cannot be cured, however the condition can be slowed down if it is captured and diagnsed early enough. This can also enable you to access the right dementia care. Noticing any of the following symptoms is vital so you can seek medical help as soon as possible. ​ • Increase in frequency of memory loss leading to being forgetful of familiar people, places or recent events • Slower than usual cognitive function such as finding the right words • Periods of mental confusion • Difficulty understanding or making decisions • Impaired reasoning and the inability to make judgements, plan or carry out tasks that require you to concentrate • Alterations in personality or mood, disinhibited behaviour • Increase in apathy or lack of interest in day to day activities • Withdrawal due to a loss of confidence or inability to manage and complete everyday tasks and communication • Hallucinations • Loss of sense of time, people, places ​ Diagnosis There isn't a precise threshold between ‘mild cognitive impairment’ for example memory loss, and a clinical diagnosis of dementia. Dementia is only diagnosed through a post mortem examination. The GP begins by finding out whether the symptoms are being caused by a treatable condition, for example a urinary tract or chest infection, constipation, thyroid deficiency, brain tumour, depression, emotional upheaval or a side effect of medication. Once the GP has eliminated these other causes, they are likely to make a referral to a specialist They may: ​ • Talk to the person and people who are close to them • Use a memory testing tool (such as the Mini Mental State Examination) • Arrange a brain scan • Carry out a physical examination ​ Our staff have great experience in helping you maintain your quality of life while remaining in the comfort of your own home. We sit down and create a specialised dementia care plan with you. This might include: ​ • Medication reminders • Support with bathing and dressing • Catheter care and continence management • Help to establish a regular exercise routine, improving mood and ensuring you are following an active lifestlye • Making sure you have plenty of fluids and a balanced diet • Assistancewith routine household chores and shoping • Companionship, and help to be involved in social activities. ​ Contact us to discuss a dementia care and support service for you.

MND is a life changing illness. We understand the emotional and practical challenges of living with MND. ​ We are here to provide you and your family with individually tailored care and support to help you manage these changes well, without needing to move to a care home. Together we create a personalised care and support plan to help you achieve your specific goals. We talk to you about what is important in your life and your personal needs and preferences Our dedicated staff team are fully trained to provide a wide range of care and support including: ​ • A good morning start to your day, with help to wash, dress and eat breakfast • Support to be involved in activities that are important to you, seeing friends and family, or going for a walk • Help with practical tasks such as housework, shopping and laundry • Assistance with taking your medicines and/or ensuring you have a readily available supply • Preparing nutritious meals and providing the support you need to eat and drink well • A night time call to get you ready for bed • 24 hour care service to give carers a short term break or live-in care on a longer term basis so that you don’t need to move to a carehome. ​ What is MND? MND is a rare disease that 5,000 people across the UK currently suffer from. The onset usually affects people of around 60 years of age, but can affect younger people too. Motor neurones are nerve cells that communicate messages from the brain or spinal cord to the muscles. When these cells are damaged, the messages cannot get through leading to gradual loss of motor skills, weakness and muscle wasting. ​ Common symptoms of MND MND is a progressive life threatening illness, and diagnosis can raise concerns as to whether living in a care home is an inevitable next step, as daily activities will become more and more difficult. For example: ​ • Gripping objects, picking objects up or lifting them • ‘Foot drop’ due to ankles becoming weak • Walking, occasionally one leg will drag • Slurred speech • Swallowing so that feeding through a tube becomes necessary • Breathing In 10-15% of cases MND is associated with fronto-temporal dementia. ​ Support to stay well There is no known cure for MND, but the right treatment and ongoing support can alleviate symptoms and keep you comfortable. Our high quality homecare aims to provide you with expert best care and support so you can enjoy your life as much as possible. Contact us to discuss an MND care and support service for you. ​ For the latest up to date information and advice about MND and support networks visit the MND Association.

Bariatric refers to the branch of medicine dealing with cases of extreme obesity. We provide specialist domiciliary care for those with these conditions. For example: ​ • Restricted mobility • Heightened vulnerability to skin infections • Low self-esteem and depression ​ Obesity also increases the risk of heart disease, hypertension, diabetes, osteoarthritis, stress incontinence and obstructive sleep apnoea. ​ Support to stay well We provide the day-to-day care that you need following surgery. We also offer longer term domiciliary care and support. This might include: ​ • Personal hygiene care • Helping you to eat healthily • Support with hobbies and social activities • Household chores • Assistance with medicines • Encouragement to maintain your independence At first, we will visit you at home to carry out a risk assessment as well as a bariatric handling plan, which details how we will carry out and determines how they can be accomplished safely (to prevent injuries to you and our staff). We always follow clear policies and best practice methods. We work with you and also obtain specialist advice from bariatric experts, as well as occupational health physiotherapists. Our aim is to help you achieve the right balance between your rights to choose how you receive your care and support, as well as your safety and the safety of our staff team. We cooperate with you to reduce environmental risks, to ensure all the right equipment is in place and to allocate domiciliary care staff with the appropriate level of training and skills. ​ Contact us to discuss a bariatric care and support service for you.

Approximately 10 million people in the UK suffer from arthritis (NHS choices). Living with arthritis can be a debilitating and painful experience. For some, it means day to day tasks can become very difficult to manage and assisted living may be an option. ​ We provide the practical care and support that you need to maintain independence and to keep enjoying your hobbies, socialising and and other activities you enjoy, without moving out of your home. We can provide support with: ​ • A call in the morning to get you up and ready for your day • Housework such as laundry and cleaning • Assistance with shopping and getting to the shops • Ensuring you have the medication you need to help reduce pain or swelling • Assistance with gentle exercise • Meal preparation and help with feeding ​ All of this is done in the comfort of your own home, so no need to move to an assisted living facility. ​ What is arthritis? Arthritis is due to the inflammation of one or more joints. A lifelong condition, it affects people of all ages. Although arthritis is increasingly common as we age, arthritic issues can also be caused by autoimmune diseases, broken bones, or bacterial or viral infection. Many different types of arthritis exist, with the most common three being; osteoarthritis, rheumatoid arthritis and juvenile arthritis. ​ Osteoarthritis Osteoarthritis is a degenerative joint disease that is frequently seen in people over the age of 50. It involves the gradual erosion of the cartilage lining that would otherwise prevent the bones within a joint from rubbing together, leading to stiffness, pain and loss of movement in the joint. Prevalent mainly in older people, it can be common for sufferers to live in supportive housing such as assisted living facilities. We aim to provide an alternative to this. ​ Rheumatoid arthritis Rheumatoid arthritis is also a chronic disease, and involves the joing lining becoming inflamed, causing constant pain, loss of function and long-term damage to the joint which can cause disability. Sufferers may also experience issues with other tissues and organs in their body. Again, it can be regular for sufferers to consider moving to an assisted living facility. we can offer a solution whereby moving to a facility will not be needed. Juvenile arthritis Juvenile arthritis refers to any type of arthritis-related condition that develops in children or teenagers under the age of 18. The most common type of juvenile arthritis is juvenile idiopathic arthritis, which is characterised by swelling of the joints for six weeks or more. ​ Support to stay well Currently, there is no cure for arthritis, however treatment and lifestyle changes can lessen pain, improve function and lessen damage to the joint. You may be prescribed medicines from your doctor to ease the pain and reduce inflammation. Occasionally, surgery may be recommended to replace a knee or hip joint. Changes to your lifestyle such as gentle exercise can relieve stiffness, reduce pain and fatigue, and also improve bone and muscle strength. Doctors may recommend low-impact strength training, aerobic activity and a course of motion exercises. Therapies involving heat, ice, water and massage may also help. ​ Our team provide the services you need to manage your condition in your own living environment, avoiding the hassle and cost of relocating to an assisted living facility. We will create a care plan with you that focuses on the things that you find important. Our high quality support and care is tailored to your unique requirements, so you can enjoy the best possible quality of life. ​ You can find reliable and up to date information on arthritis at the NHS website or the national charity Arthritis Care. ​ Contact us discuss an arthritis care and support service for you.

We understand that diabetes management means making a lot of lifestyle changes. A healthy diet and taking regular exercise are important for us all, but especially important to those with this condition. We carry out care and support services to help you with your diabetes management. Our care workers provide: ​ • Educating you on how to make healthy food choices when both shopping and cooking • Regular meals and drinks to ensure you are hydrated, as well as ensuring you correctly balance your blood and glucose levels • We encourage you to enjoy exercise which will improve mental health and promote self-care • We offer practical support to manage blurred vision, fatigue, weight loss and hunger • Help with medication and monitoring glucose levels • Help identifying hypoglycaemia such as: confusion, changes to personality, frequent headaches, speech and self-care difficulties, poor appetite, aggressive behaviour, unsteadiness and falls or loss of consciousness • Communication with health care services to ensure you get the best treatment What is diabetes? Diabetes is a common long term condition that affects people from any race, of any age or gender. ​ Our bodies need glucose to provide the fuel we need for day to day living. A hormone called insulin allows the glucose we need to enter the cells from the blood stream. Diabetes is caused when glucose builds up in the bloodstream because the pancreas does not produce enough or any insulin or because the insulin is not working properly. ​ Support to stay well Left untreated, diabetes can lead to heart disease, stroke, dental problems, nerve damage and blindness. Our care workers can support you and your family to manage these risks and reduce the impact of everyday symptoms so you can continue to enjoy a normal and active life. ​ Find reliable advice about the symptoms, causes and treatment of diabetes from the NHS website and Diabetes UK. ​ Contact us to discuss a diabetes care and support service for you.

We understand the impact that a diagnosis of MS can have on you. We offer full care and support to help you and your family through this difficult period. ​ What is MS? MS affects approximately 100,000 people in the UK and is the most common disease affecting the central nervous system that affects younger adults. ​ MS is an autoimmune disease whereby our immune systems mistakenly attacks the myelin sheath that shields our nerve fibres, leading to messages getting disturbed, slow down or stop altogether. Common symptoms Symptoms vary for each person with the illness as they depend on the nerves that are affected and the extent of the damage. Some people experience symptoms for a short time and then don't experience any symptoms for months or even years, whilst other people experience symptoms more regularly. Symptoms generally worsen over time due to deterioration of nerves. We will provide you with tailored home care to meet your specific needs. ​ The more common symptoms include overwhelming fatigue, dizzy spells, loss of balance, muscle spasms, numbness, difficulty swallowing and moving arms or legs, bowel and bladder problems, double vision, eye discomfort or loss of vision, memory or other cognitive impairments and sexual dysfunction. ​ Support to stay well Treatment is carried out to slow the developmentof the disease and to control symptoms. As well as prescription medications, lifestyle changes and certain therapies can improve the condition. We provide experienced staff to help you maintain your quality of life while remaining in your own home. We will sit down, and together we will come up with a specialised home care plan with you. This might include: ​ • Reminding or helping you to take your medicines • Support with bathing and getting dressed • Catheter care and continence management • Help to establish a regular exercise routine, which enhances mood and keeps you active • Making sure you have plenty of fluids and a balanced, nutritional diet • Assisting with routine household chores as well as shopping. Find out more about MS and the support available from the MS Society. ​ Contact your local Cott's Care office to discuss an MS home care and support service for you.

Sustaining a spinal injury is life changing and requires significant physical, emotional and social adjustment ​ Roles and responsibilities need to be redefined. Returning home from hospital is likely to be accompanied by uncertainty and anxiety about what is coming. We fully acknowledge and understand these challenges and can provide care and support to help you and your family. ​ What is a spinal injury? Spinal injury refers to damage of the spinal cord from a traumatic injury or a non-traumatic injury such as a haemorrhage, tumour or blood clot. ​ Your spinal cord contains vital nerve cells that transmit messages from the brain to the muscles, skin and other organs of the body. They also transmit sensations from the body to the brain such as pain, texture etc. Those with spinal injuries experience a loss of movement and sensation below the point of the injury. ​ Common symptoms and risks If there is partial damage, a certain amount of sensation and movement will return, but it can take up to two years. If there is complete damage, the loss of function is likely to be life long. ​ Paralysis and loss of feeling increase the risks of: ​ • Pressure sores • Hypothermia (lowered body temperature) and hyperthermia (raised body temperature) due to the body being unable to sweat • Strokes caused by sudden surges in blood pressure • Injuries from uncontrollable muscle spasms ​ Support to stay well Our team will create a specialised care plan with you that focuses on realistic goals you wish to achieve. This might include: ​ • Reminders and assitance with taking your medicines to manage your symptoms • Help with bathing and dressing to keep your hygiene maintained • Catheter and continence management • Making sure you have plenty of fluids and a balanced diet • Assisting with routine household chores • Emotional or social support • Support with rehabilitation Further information and support is available from the Spinal Injuries Association. Contact us to discuss a spinal injuries care and support service for you.

Getting back to life after a stroke can prove difficult. You may feel exhausted, and experience anxiety about the future or angry that this has happened to you. ​ We provide the extra home care and support you need to manage these challenges. Our dedicated, experenced team provide practical, emotional and social support, helping you enjoy a normal and independent life. ​ Strokes affect people of all ages, with 75% of cases affecting people over the age of 65. Family history, diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure can all be factors that increase the risk of stroke. ​ Each person's experience of stroke can be unique. Our team will ask about what is important in your life as well as your personal needs. We will create a bespoke home care and support plan to help you achieve your specific goals. You are always in control and we fully respect it is your home and therefore your choice. The services we offer include: ​ • Support with rehabilitation • A good morning start to your day, helping to wash, dress and have breakfast • Support to be involved in social and physical activities • Help around your home like laundry and other housework • Assistance with taking/stocking your medicines • Preparing nutritious meals and providing the support you need to eat and drink healthily • A night time call to settle you comfortably at night • 24 hour home care service ​ What is a stroke? Strokes are caused by a ruptured blood vessel or a blood clot that blocks the flow of blood to the brain. ​ The effects of a stroke and support to stay well After a stroke about a third of people will develop asphasia, which affects communication skills such as speaking, reading, writing and understanding. Some may experience a loss of memory or ability to concentrate. We will use a range of different tools to help a person express what they need to. ​ You may experience loss of bladder or bowel control, which can cause embarrassment. Responses to a stroke can be depression, anger or inability to control emotions may be uncharacteristic. These behaviours can be compounded by health anxiety as wel as getting back to work and medication side effects. Family and friends may also notice a change in personality traits or behaviours. We pay attention to how you and your family are feeling, and support you as far as possible to regain control. The physical effects of a stroke can include weakness or paralysis often on one side of the body, seizures, a lack of awareness and extreme fatigue. Our staff offer services that provide practical help to alleviate the impact of these conditions. ​ Find out more about stroke and support networks from the Stroke Association. Contact us to discuss a stroke care and support service for you.

Cott's Care understand and acknowledge the mental pain and pressures when someone in your family has a life threatening illness. ​ Our fully trained care assistants offer empathetic care and support to help you and your loved ones through this difficult period. Our care team provide the emotional and practical support you need at all times, from when you receive the diagnosis until the final months. ​ Our care plan, that we will sit down and agree, is tailored to your personal needs and choices. We support our customers to be as comfortable as possible in the familiar surroundings of their own home. ​ Families can find out more about palliative care and support at the NHS website. Contact us to discuss a palliative care and support service for you

Suffering from a brain injury can have a life changing impact on the person with the injury, as well as their family and friends. We understand that managing the effects of sudden brain damage is emotionally and practically challenging. We provide high quality home care services to support carers and their loved ones as they adjust. ​ We listen carefully to your requirements and create a bespoke care and support plan. We help with: ​ • Support to relearn basic life skills • Personal care such as hygiene • Medicine management • Development of confidence towards greater independence • Providing healthy, nutritious meals • Child care support • Respite care • Emergency planning ie, cover if main carer becomes ill ​ We also provide much needed emotional support. What does acquired brain injury mean? Acquired brain injuries refer to an injury to the brain that occurs after birth. This could be due to a traumatic injury such as a severe blow or jolt, or even a tumour, stroke, infection or haemorrhage. Common causes and symptoms Our team are experienced with managing different age groups. The location and type of injury will determine how severe the damage is, which skills and mental abilities are affected and for how long. ​ If a person has suffered a mild acquired brain injury, they may suffer from concussion, loss of consciousness for a short period, memory and concentration problems, headaches, mood and sleep changes, dizziness or loss of balance, and sensitivity to light or sound. ​ A person who has suffered from moderate to severe acquired brain injury may have one or more of these symptoms; confusion, agitation, slurred speech, convulsions, pupil dilation and loss of coordination. Control of bodily functions may be lost, suffering of worsening headaches, and episodes of nausea and vomiting. ​ Suffering from a brain injury can also cause depression, anxiety and a range of inappropriate emotional responses. These symptoms can have a very negative affect on the families of those affected. ​ Support to stay well Our experienced care assistants provide support for both carers and loved ones. Medical evidence shows how people with acquired brain injuries can regain or learn new skills. Our goal is to assist and help people maximise their potential for improvement so that they can enjoy fulfilling lives. Find out more about acquired brain injury and the support available from the brain injury association at Headway. Contact us to discuss an acquired brain injury care and support service for you.

We help you reduce the risks of ill health associated with high blood pressure (also called hypertension). Genetic factors or lifestyle choices such as smoking, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, poor diet, being overweight, or suffering from diabetes all increase your risk. We are aware that even the smallest lifestyle changes can make a big difference. We offer specialist care and support you need to make these lifestyle changes. We can help you with: ​ • Keeping a healthy diet that is low in sodium, added sugar and saturated fats by planning healthy meals that you will love, helping you buy and prepare the right ingredients and drinks, and encouraging you to stay on track with your goals • Include regular, achievable exercise to your day to day routine • Keep up social contacts and activities that you enjoy and are important to you • Take your medication at the right time and attend your medical appointments when needed ​ We can provide general care and support for all aspects of daily living, including personal care and housework. ​ What does high blood pressure mean? Nearly 1/3 of adults in the UK suffer from high blood pressure. This condition lasts throughout a lifetime, and increasingly affects young people too. It is occasionally called the ‘silent killer’ because people often do not realise they have it until it has become a serious condition. ​ Blood pressure refers to how forcefully blood presses against the walls of your arteries (large blood vessels) as the heart pumps it around the body. If the pressure is too high, this increases the heart’s workload and can arteries can be damaged. Early diagnosis is vital, because it can increase the risk of heart and kidney disease, stroke and brain disease. ​ Support to stay well We aim to provide you with personal care and support to maintain your health and quality of life. Visit the NHS website for more information on high blood pressure. Contact us for more information on how we can help you.

Discovering you or a loved one has been diagnosed with Huntington’s disease (HD) can come as a huge shock. You may fear that residential care is inevitable. ​ At Cott's Care, we understand that the impact can be extremely devastating. We provide a range of high quality services to help you and your family manage the challenges without needing to move to residential care, such as: ​ • Manage anxiety or loneliness • Maintain general health and ease symptoms • Ensure you take the medicines you need and attend medical appointments • Daily tasks around the home • Help with your personal care and hygiene • Live the end of your life with dignity ​ What is Huntington’s Disease? An incurable, degenerative disease of the central nervous system. In 97% of cases this disorder is caused by a hereditary gene. ​ HD affects co-ordination of muscles as well as cognitive functioning. Symptoms include jerking or twitching, difficulties with feeding and behaviour, communication problems, depression and anxiety, disorientation and poor concentration. Those with the condition often experience mood swings, which can affect the family, especially as the person with HD may also experience a lack of awareness of this. Support to stay well We provide essential support so you and your family are able to manage the symptoms of HD. ​ We will agree a bespoke care plan that gives you the care and support you need. We find out what is important to you and your specific goals in coping with this illness, as well as for your family with coping. ​ Symptoms change over time so we will regularly talk to you about any changes that we need to make to your care plan. ​You can find out more about HD at the Huntington’s Disease Association and on the NHS website. ​ Contact us to discuss a Huntington’s Disease care and support service for you