Oldham's Angels continue to bring peace for end-of-life patients

An Oldham care company was honoured by This Morning presenter Josie Gibson - and immediately dedicated this to a recently passed client for whom they brought new life into his final days.

Along with a galaxy of high-quality health and social care champions across the country, the Visiting Angels were saluted at the Stars of Social Care Awards – finishing as a finalist in the Marketing berth.

The achievement recognised how they had increased their portfolio, largely via the word-of-mouth recommendations of their clients.

And praise was certainly forthcoming in the case of George, whose family were so grateful for the way his and their lives were transformed, shortly before his death.

“Where I think we succeed is in placing the most appropriate “Angel” in the right setting,” said Roxie Taj, Managing Director of the Visiting Angels.

“That was certainly true for George who although from a different cultural background, really connected with his carer.

"When we first visited, George was isolated and mentally, he was in a bad place.

"We got him out on his favourite walk, to the pub to play pool, and even on the tram to the Football Museum in Manchester, where he was reconnected to so many memories.

"People really noticed a change and George’s final days were indeed, golden.”

Visiting Angels pride themselves on becoming another member of the family to those they care for.

With faith in them to look after George, his wife was able to go out shopping, get her hair done and enjoy the respite she so richly deserved.

Employees in the organisation are also treated like kin, and in direct contrast to so many within their field, carers receive an annual rise and even get paid for journeys to and from their client’s house.

“Personality is the key when I meet potential carers,” admitted Roxie.

"Yes, they will need the necessary qualifications and experience, but most of all we want to see compassion and a desire to treat clients with issues such as dementia, as if they were family.”

And speaking of being personable, Roxie said of former Big Brother housemate Josie, “She was so down-to-earth and friendly – I might have to employ her as a Visiting Angel!”

The Star Awards were presented over two nights (June 13/14) at the London Marriott Hotel in Regent’s Park.

The first ceremony honoured those delivering care in the community, the second night was homes, hospitals and hospices.

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