Independent Carer in Haydon Bridge

1. I have known Lorna for approximately two years. She was a care assistant working for a national care agency in Northumberland. She cared for my elderly mother one to two mornings per week. My mother required assistance with washing, dressing, and taking her morning medications. She was a high falls risk due to end-stage cardiac failure, COPD, dependent leg oedema and some short-term memory loss. My mother really liked Lorna and they built up a good rapport.

Lorna was always very professional and constantly showed care, compassion and respect for my mother and for our family. She always checked and followed my mother's care plan and would talk through what she was doing with my mother throughout her care, ensuring she was happy with each step. Lorna was thorough with infection control procedures and was neat and tidy in her work. We very much trusted Lorna. She has a gentle and caring approach, and as my mother's condition deteriorated she quickly adapted to her changing needs. I will always remember Lorna for her gentle, mature and compassionate manner. She is bright, shows initiative and common sense, and has good communication skills.

2. I have known Lorna for just short of a year, when she began visiting my 93-year-old mother as a carer. They clicked instantly due to Lorna's gentle and supportive approach. She proved to be the perfect companion: always punctual, diligent and extremely patient. She is also a very good listener. Mum always looked forward to her visits. I always found her to be very understanding and reliable, keeping me informed of the progress of each visit. I have no doubt she would be an excellent independent carer. We miss her very much.