"Assistance in the care of my husband"

I’ve used the 111 service twice in the past few months. The first time was when my husband had blood in his urine due to a urinary tract infection and also had a chest infection and was feeling very ill.

This second time I called 111 again, another urinary tract infection was causing him to feel unwell. It was Christmas eve and they didn’t hesitate to call for an ambulance to take my husband into the Kingston Hospital. My husband also suffers from vascular dementia – the ambulance crew, the people in A&E, AAU and the on the ward were amazing.

Because of the vascular dementia my husband has a setback in his Alzheimer’s condition each time he has a hospital stay. It also affects his mobility and the hospital has been excellent in arranging extra support for us through Enablement.

I’m really grateful for this extra support but the internal communications in Enablement has been poor. Once the support needs were agreed with the supervisor- bathing 3 times a week at 7: 30 in the morning I had a carer arrive today (Tuesday) on a day when she was not expected. I need them to come on the days and times agreed so that both my husband and I are prepared for them.