You could say they are a caring family…

Meet the Ashwells, of Ashwell Home Care Services, Malvern, as they welcome the latest member to join the family business.

Matt Ashwell has recently joined his parents, Phil and Debbie Ashwell, founders of Ashwell Home Care Services, and his sister, Emily Ashwell, who works as a care companion for the Malvern-based company. Matt has come into the business as an HR apprentice, building on his passion for equality and fair rights for employees.

Matt began his apprentice scheme in February this year through Nemaltd, the North East Management Academy. This allows him to train while working towards gaining a Level 3 NVQ in HR. Matt says, “I am delighted for this opportunity to work in the care sector and keep up the high standard of employment values that Ashwell is renowned for.” Ashwell is known for the high level of respect they have for their employees. Every member of staff is made to feel valued and recognised for the work that they do.

Sensibly, Matt decided to move out from his parent’s home when he began working in the family business. He sees a different side to his parents in work. Matt says, “they are much more relaxed at home. In the office, I can see how hard they strive to provide the very best care for their clients.” They make an effort to keep work at work so that every family occasion doesn’t simply turn into a business meeting!

Ashwell Home Care Services provides at-home care services for people in and around the Malvern area. The head office is located near the Three Counties showground in a rural business park. From here the team coordinates their care companions around the surrounding areas.

Despite only having been with the business for a short while, Matt already has big ambitions, “I want to help Ashwell to be the number one care agency in the West Midlands,” says Matt, “or at least number one in Worcestershire.” Ashwell is already gaining an impressive reputation in and around Malvern, both from their clients and their employees, and they are a top-ranking care agency on the national website homecare.co.uk.

Matt loves recruiting care companions into the family firm. Ashwell is committed to finding the right people for the job, on average they interview 10 candidates for one successful role. If you are interested in a rewarding job for a company that values you, take note of Matt’s top tip. “Be yourself. There is no point in going to an interview with a fake character.”

Demand for home care is increasing, and the team at Ashwell is constantly recruiting good people to care for their clients. Matt is thoroughly enjoying working in the care sector in his family business. If you are looking for home care for yourself or a family member, Ashwell Home Care Services is always on the end of the phone for a friendly informal chat about care, simply call 01684 778750. If you are interested in a rewarding vocation in the care sector, please call the head office and speak to Matt on 01684 778750.

Dementia is happening every day, all around you…

Did you know someone in the world is diagnosed with dementia every 3 seconds? That’s an incredible number of people who are struggling with carrying out everyday tasks that you or I take for granted. The more we can raise awareness of dementia amongst the wider public, the more support and help people will receive. At Ashwell Home Care Services we are supporting Dementia UK’s “time for a cuppa” week from the 1^st to the 8^th of May, to help raise public awareness about dementia.

Isn’t dementia just part of growing old?

Dementia is not simply a natural part of aging. Dementia is an umbrella term for diseases that affect the brain such as Alzheimer’s. These diseases can cause problems with memory, and understanding. This can result in people forgetting names or important dates. It may lead to confusion with tasks such as getting dressed, or shopping. It can cause personality changes. It can make it very difficult for people to live independently without support.

Can’t I just look after my loved ones?

Caring for someone with dementia can place a great strain upon family members. If you believe a loved one is starting to show signs of dementia it is important to seek help. We provide trained care companions to help provide support to those people with dementia. You are not alone, and no one can provide round-the-clock care without help or a break.  Trying to care for your loved ones and your own family can be difficult for everyone. Reach out and speak to someone.

What are the signs to look out for?

Dementia presents differently in different people. The important thing to look for is changes. If someone has previously been very social and they suddenly become withdrawn, that may be a sign. But if they have always been happy in their own company, then there is no concern. The main indicators are:

• Increased forgetfulness
• Increased confusion
• Changes to personality
• Reduced concentration
• Depression or withdrawal
• An inability to carry out everyday tasks

Who can help me?

Speak to your doctor in the first instance. If you need to access local authority funding to gain support for your loved one, you will need a diagnosis. If you require private care you can proceed without an official diagnosis, or you can put measures in place to support your loved one before they meet the criteria for a formal diagnosis. Speak to us. We are trained professionals and can advise you both about the medical side of dementia, as well as explaining the complexities of local authority funding and what you will need to do. We are always happy to talk.

What’s the next step?

While dementia is an incurable condition, early intervention and diagnosis have been shown to help reduce the speed of deterioration. Our aim at Ashwell Home Service is to help people live a life with dementia, not a life ruled by dementia. Contact us today and let us help you.