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Dare to Care

Carer Profile

Chrissie Rodgers has, until recently, been a key, lead carer helping my wife and I look after our 22 year old profoundly and multiply handicapped son, Chris. Sadly, in mid August 2004, their relationship came to an end when Chris died.

Chris was blind and spastic quadriplegic but Chrissie saw beyond those profound disabilities and forged a true friendship with him and learned how to communicate with him.

The impact of Chrissie as a carer cannot be underestimated. Her support enabled my wife and I to be able to pursue normal day-to-day activities such as going to the cinema, going out for a meal, visiting family and friends and, from time to time, going away for a short break.

She, like us, learned to anticipate his needs and accurately read all the signs Chris gave which told us what those needs were at any particular time.

Chrissie undertook the full range of activities that our son enjoyed and benefited from. Together, Chris in his wheelchair, they walked through the village where we lived, read stories and sang, bathing, physiotherapy sessions, music and movement, light sensory equipment, art and craft work.

It soon became apparent that Chris not only enjoyed his participation but, in his own way, achieved a great deal fortunately Chris also liked Chrissie’s taste in music, too (sixties pop).

Out and about with Chrissie

When Chris died, Chrissie wrote to us saying: “Thank you, thank you, thank you for letting me be part of Chris’ life. It has been a true privilege to support Chris who became my friend.”

Chrissie set the benchmark and became the ‘team leader’ in every respect assuming the role of ‘principal carer’ in Chris’ team ( which usually consisted of 6-7 carers, along with many other health and social services workers). She would say, “I’ll offer the shift to everyone but I hope no-one is available, that way I get to do it myself!”

The only problem we ever had with her was that she rarely wanted to go home at the end of her shift. But what a problem to have!

(Picture: Photo of Chrissie and Chris)


Job Advertisement: Care Support Workers, Crossroads Caring for Carers

Wage, £6.00 per hour + enhancement for weekends
Hours, min 16 per week, over 7 days, night weekend & evening shift
Employers, Rhondda Cynon Taff Crssroads
Pension, No Details held
Duration, Permanent only

Description

Must poses a current driving licence and have own vehicle as you will be required to travel throughout the Rhondda Cynon Taff area. Experience preferred, but not essential as full training to NVQ Level 3 is available. You will be working with physically disabled and learning disabled children between the ages of 0-18. Hours are flexible and can be arranged to suit, but are mostly evening and weekend shifts, but could also include daytime and night shifts.

How to Apply

You can ring on 01443 484246 for an application pack, or speak to Liz on the above number for further details about the job. You can apply for this job by obtaining an application form from, and returning it to:

Rhonda Cynon Taff Crossroads, Llanover House, Llanover Road, Pontypridd, Mid Glamorgan, CF37 4DY.

If you are looking for work, Tax Credits could top up your earnings.
All successful candidates will be vetted prior to taking up appointment.
This vacancy meets the requirements of the National Minimum Wage Act Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 Page 5 Page 6 Page 7 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Page 20 Page 21 Page 22 Page 23 Page 24 Page 25 Page 26 Page 27 Page 28 Page 29 Page 30 Page 31 Page 32