VAL'S STORY

MOVED
We moved to this part of the country some 16 years ago because of my husband's work.
Roger had his stroke in 1998 aged 54, and although he has made a good recovery he still needs a considerable amount of support and I have had to develop many new skills.

VOLUNTARY SECTOR
Throughout my adult life I have been involved with the voluntary sector, and although I have played a very minor part in the amazing results STROKEWATCH has achieved I fully support their aims and I am pleased to assist in any way I can, especially by representing users and carers in all my roles.

COMMUNITY HEALTH COUNCIL
Currently amongst my duties as a member of the Community Health Council (CHC) I ask health professionals to explain why they have taken the decisions they have and I visit and report back to the CHC on the condition of hospital wards, patient care and specific areas.

INDEPENDENT INSPECTORATE
As a lay assessor with the Independent Inspectorate of Residential Homes, a role I had to relinquish during the summer because we moved house, I accompanied inspectors on their announced visits in order to speak to the residents and staff and to assess the standard of care I observed.

ASSOCIATE
For the past 6 years as an associate of the Hull and East Riding Community Trust I have reviewed mental health sections, a role which has stood me in good stead for the psychological trauma all stroke survivors and their carers suffer following a stroke.

EUCHARISTIC MINISTER
For the past 7years, as a Eucharistic Minister in the Roman Catholic faith I have had the privilege of serving my fellow parishioners, whilst at the same time I have been supported by their approval of my community work.

STAND UP AND BE COUNTED
At times I have become overwhelmed by the roles I have committed myself to, but I firmly believe that if we as members of society don't stand up and 'get counted' then we get everything we deserve such as poor healthcare provision, low standards and disregard for the vulnerable, elderly and disabled.
How can we expect services to improve if we don't make sure that those in a position to do something about it, know what is going wrong. Every NHS Trust has a Chief Executive and a Chairman/woman, and I would encourage you to tell them whenever you see or experience something you disapprove of.

........ Thank you for visiting our Website.......... Keep well !

   

Click here to go to members pages