VOLUNTEER carers are being sought to improve the quality of life for some elderly people.Homeshare carers have small groups of elderly people in their homes as a type of family day care centre to help make a difference to them.

VOLUNTEER carers are being sought to improve the quality of life for some elderly people.

Homeshare carers have small groups of elderly people in their homes as a type of family day care centre to help make a difference to them.

It gives care for people still living in their own homes who are possibly recovering from illness or bereavement, they may be social isolated or it may just give respite to their carers.

Homeshare carers provide a cooked lunch for the group and also entertain them in a variety of ways from simply chatting to playing cards.

The Homeshare scheme has been running since 1986 in the area and more recently in the Felixstowe area.

Currently there are ten carers providing care for 20 groups a week and now it is hoped to expand that service.

It is hoped this kind of day care will help prevent hospital admissions where isolation and loneliness can become a real issue.

Homeshare is also looking to provide a service for those coming out of hospital, possibly on a short term basis.

For people using the Homeshare service it can stop them feeling lonely and give them a reason to get up in the mornings.

Carers get expenditure paid, training in First Aid, manual handling, food and hygiene as well as advice and support from experienced Homeshare carers.

Volunteers need to be able to commit themselves to a day a week or more between 10am and 3pm and be able to provide a two course main meal as well as refreshments.

For further information telephone the Homeshare office on 01473 588575.