Notts County Council 'changed my life'

WHEN Nicola Hendey's parents died ten years ago in a car crash on the M1 her life fell apart.

Partially sighted with cerebral palsy, she relied on her parents a great deal, but today Dr Hendey, a senior research fellow at the University of Nottingham, says Notts County Council turned her life around.

She said: "My whole world collapsed, they were brilliant parents I couldn't have asked for better. I didn't know which way to turn and Helen Tyers [council social worker] arrived and changed my life."

And she is not alone. The council has been awarded the highest possible rating of three stars for its social care services for adults.

In an annual review by national inspectors, Notts County Council was commended for helping people with learning and physical disabilities, assisting older people to stay living at home and supporting people getting back to work.

Dr Hendey is one of 1,058 people in Notts who receives direct payments from the council, which means she can spend the money to arrange her own social care.

This figure has nearly doubled since 2007, when there were 667 registered. Per head, the scheme in Notts leads the region.

Dr Hendey uses the money to employ her personal carer Hilary Skinner, who drives her to hospital appointments, helps with proof-reading and takes her and her dog Cavendish to obedience training.

She said: "It's a lot more flexible, it allows disabled people to take part fully as citizens. It's allowing me to be economically productive and give something back to the community.

"It's revolutionised my life."

Alternatively, a community carer would visit at fixed times.

Dr Hendey works mostly from her home in Ruddington but says she would not be able to do her job without the council's support. The council also recommended that she got her guide dog Cavendish, who can even get her clothes out the washing machine and answer the telephone.

She said: "I don't think I could have had better social care anywhere else. It's enabled me to live in my own home and allows me to have a life."

The council was also commended for its 'Opportunity Age' programme, which helps older people stay independent, with gardening and other services. The review states that the council involves and listens to service users, and takes time to assess people's needs.

Coun Alan Rhodes said: "I am delighted with this maximum three-star rating, which is a real testimony to the hard work and dedication of our staff – not just those front line social workers, occupational therapists and meals at home delivery people, but also those office staff who are busy behind the scenes."

delia.monk@nottinghameveningpost.co.uk