A team at a County Council-run service have received an emotional letter of thanks from a local man for the care and support they have provided over the past six months to his younger brother Michael.
Michael, who has Down’s Syndrome, had been cared for by his older brother Vic and his wife Sonja Knight for 11 and a half years, but following a diagnosis of dementia and progression of the illness, an emergency stay was initially found at Helmsley Road Short Breaks Unit in Rainworth in November 2020.
During the pandemic, the Council adapted the way it provided services and Helmsley Road changed from offering short breaks to also becoming a medium stay unit. Michael remained at Helmsley Road until earlier this month and has now moved into new accommodation more suitable for his needs as his condition progresses.
Following Michael’s move, Vic and Sonja have written to thank all the Helmsley Road team for their dedication and commitment in looking after Michael during his stay.
Vic Knight said: “I will remember forever the day we dropped him off at Helmsley Rd on 3 November. Walking away as he sat in an armchair in bungalow 27, clutching his little briefcase to his chest and looking wide-eyed around him, is the probably the hardest thing I have ever done.
“Quite simply, Sonja and I have been overwhelmed at the care and consideration Michael has received at Helmsley Road throughout his six months there. We cannot thank everybody enough for this.
“Aside from making Mick so comfortable, all of you also made an extremely sad time in the lives of Sonja and myself that bit easier. Notts CC should be exceptionally proud of you all and the work you do.”
Councillor Boyd Elliott, Chair of Adult Social Care and Health Committee, said: “I am immensely proud of our Helmsley Road team, who have made a difficult situation that bit easier for one family. Thank you to Vic and Sonja for sending in such positive feedback, as it is so rewarding for our team to know that they have made a real difference to someone’s life.”
Helmsley Road is one of three County Council-run units which offers residential short breaks for adults aged 18 to 65 with a moderate to severe learning disability. For more information: https://www.nottinghamshire.gov.uk/care/adult-social-care/carers/breaks-from-caring/short-breaks
