BEFORE you get an avalanche of letters berating Doncaster Social Services, our experiences are quite the opposite to that of Carol Ogden (Gran failed by system, DFP, Nov 15).
Over the last two years they have been superb! Initially, we were faced with an elderly parent, not coping but refusing any help when we were about to go on our summer holiday.
We were legally unable to take any steps to introduce outside agenc
ies or put her into respite care because she had made that choice. This refusal or denial of a problem was part of the condition of Alzheimer's which was undiagnosed at the time.
Through their skills, the social workers persuaded her to allow carers to help her on a temporary basis. This enabled us to go away and enjoy our holiday.
Since then they have introduced care on a permanent and now on a three-times daily basis, always been there for help when we have asked for it, and given us guidance as to her mental position and the law.
We have worked together to make her home a safer place in which to live. We also found out that from the Council's Financial Services, financial help was on hand to support extra costs.
As an indirect result of that intervention, she received diagnosis and medication for the Alzheimer's through the Doncaster and Humber Mental Health Care Trust.
This is currently stabilising her condition. In addition, through the knowledge we gained that we were able to make decisions for her and the persistance of the Diabetic Retinal Eye Screening Clinic at Doncaster Royal Infirmary, this year our elderly mother was given the gift of sight following cataract removal.
She is currently able to remain in her own warden covered council bungalow, with all concerned delighted at the outcomes.
We hope that our community realises that looking after the elderly is not just a job for Social Services.
There are increasing numbers of 'old folks' and the budget is finite. There are some responsibilities for the relatives to take an active role in.
We can honestly say that every agency we have worked with over the last two years, the experiences and outcomes in helping us bring a better quality of life to our mother have been marvellous.
Name and address supplied 