Elaine Clements
Support for people affected by long term illness
My background
I have worked for 20 years in the National Health Service, with Social Services and the voluntary sector, latterly in senior positions in the rehabilitation of the elderly and in developing services to meet the needs of carers. Before moving to France a year ago I was working as Regional Manager for the Stroke Association, developing services to provide support to families living with the effects of stroke illness.
My experience of listening to hundreds of people affected by the long term illness of partners friends, families has been as important as all of the training I have done in helping me to understand the needs of carers.
The impact of illness within a family can never be under estimated. A person’s role in the family can suddenly change because of the illness or disablement of a loved one. Many people forfeit their own life to care for a loved one out of love or duty and expect no help or support.
Being a carer is one of the toughest jobs in the world, psychologically, emotionally and physically, and you don't get paid!
What I can offer
If you are experiencing practical or emotional difficulties to do with caring for a family member or friend here in France I can offer:
• To help you find resources
• Face to face meetings to listen to and support you
• Help online through email
• Telephone consultations
• Facilitation of groups
• The opportunity to network with other carers for peer support
If you think I may be able to help you
Contact me by email at <elaine-clements@hotmail.co.uk>
or by phone on 0033(0)473721895
or by phone on 0033(0)473721895