Independence Day

A new service to help people make a swift transition from a state of dependency to independence is being introduced by Wigan Council.

The council’s reablement team will support people who have just left hospital or residential care – or work to prevent them from having to go there in the first place.

Many people of all ages leave hospital or residential care in the borough each year. But for many of them, their illness or injury means that they struggle to remain at home – a situation the reablement team aims to turn around.

Reablement staff act as a stepping stone to independence, giving people the support they need to regain lost skills, learn new ones and generally adapt to the challenges that independent living presents. They are trained to carry out therapeutic activities, such as improving mobility, building stamina and practising personal care.

The reablement service can be provided for up to six weeks after an eligible person leaves hospital, while more short-term support is available to try and avoid the need for someone to be admitted to hospital or residential care.

Wigan Council’s Cabinet Champion for Healthier Communities, Councillor Kevin Anderson explains:

“This is all about helping people to do things themselves, rather than have to depend on others to do things for them. Our qualified, dedicated staff can really make a difference. With their short term, intensive support, many people can continue to live as independently as possible.”

Anybody interested in a career with the reablement team can contact Kathryn Robinson on 01942 487904. She’s looking for individuals with a background or interest in social care. They’ll want to improve the lives of others, and have the skills and commitment necessary to work with people, carers and other colleagues to help people remain independent.