"I do like having someone to talk to with whom I can speak in confidence"

I have a variety services that Locala provide for me. They are all really good.

I have a home visit from the Community Matron, at the moment there is another lady from Dewsbury Hospital who does these visits. She monitors my condition as I have emphysema and has given me tips on breathing techniques – you would think there is nothing to learn about how to breathe but the techniques have made a real difference.

Because of the home visits I have also had a second hand rail put on the stairs to make it easier for me to get up them. I also have a prop in my bed so that I am more upright when I sleep making my breathing easier.

I have a podiatrist to check my feet and trim my nails and have also had a home optician.

As I cannot always get down to open the door for visitors I have had a key safe installed so that visitors can let themselves in.

I like my independence and am happy being on my own, but I do like having someone to talk to with whom I can speak in confidence without being judged. I would be lost without these services.

Locala have arranged all this for me. People complain about raising taxes but they should realize that taxes are essential to fund these services.