The Care Podcast

Why You Can’t Switch Off When Caring for a Loved One (And What Helps) In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo speaks with Helena Hitchcox, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care, about the emotional weight that often comes with supporting a loved one. When someone you care about is struggling, it can be hard to stop worrying — even when you’re not with them. Helena shares her personal experience of supporting her mum while living miles away, and explains why so many carers feel like they have to carry everything on their own. This conversation offers practical reassurance on how to share responsibility, find the right support, and protect your own wellbeing along the way. Who this is for: ✓ Family members supporting a loved one at home ✓ People feeling overwhelmed or constantly worried ✓ Those balancing care with work or other responsibilities ✓ Anyone unsure where to turn for help as a carer In this video we cover: ✓ Why it’s so difficult to switch off when caring for someone ✓ The hidden pressures carers often carry alone ✓ How guilt and responsibility can build over time ✓ The importance of building a support network ✓ What support is available beyond family and friends ✓ How to avoid burnout and stay well yourself About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: 🎧 Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK    

In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo speaks with Helena Hitchcox, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care, about what to do when something doesn’t feel quite right with a loved one. Whether it’s small changes in behaviour, memory, or daily routines, Helena shares practical advice on how to trust your instincts, respond calmly, and avoid jumping to the worst conclusions. Drawing on both professional experience and her personal journey supporting her mum, Helena explains how to notice subtle changes, support independence, and approach sensitive conversations with care and dignity. Who this is for: ✓ Family members worried something has changed in a loved one ✓ People noticing subtle changes in behaviour or memory ✓ Anyone unsure whether to seek medical advice ✓ Those wanting to support someone without taking away independence In this video we cover: ✓ How to recognise when something “feels off” ✓ Subtle changes in behaviour, memory, and routines ✓ Why it’s important not to jump to conclusions too quickly ✓ How to support a loved one without taking over ✓ When it might be time to seek medical advice ✓ Possible causes of confusion (not always dementia) About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: 🎧 Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ 

In this episode of The Care Podcast, Jo is joined by Helena Hitchcock, Director of Operations at Unique Senior Care. With over 40 years of experience, Helena shares practical advice on managing the constant worry that can come with caring for an ageing parent or loved one. Together, they explore the emotional and practical challenges families face — from feeling overwhelmed and stretched too thin, to knowing when to seek extra support. Who this is for: ✓ Family members caring for an ageing parent ✓ Those supporting someone with dementia or memory loss ✓ Anyone feeling overwhelmed, anxious or burnt out in a caring role ✓ People exploring care options for the first time In this episode we cover: ✓ Why caring roles can feel overwhelming and how burnout develops ✓ Common worries families face, including safety and independence ✓ Practical ways to reduce risk at home without restricting freedom ✓ How technology (pendants, alerts, care lines) can offer peace of mind ✓ What the Herbert Protocol is and how it can help in emergencies ✓ Where to find local support, including day centres and community services About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: Watch more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT_IldwcpXdgl7H4p21icBW   Further resources and support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

In this episode of the Care Podcast by Unique Senior Care, we talk about how families can make practical safety changes in a loved one’s home without it feeling clinical or hospital-like. Our Operations Director, Helena Hitchcox, shares simple advice on balancing comfort, familiarity and safety, especially when supporting an older person who may be at risk of falls or other hazards at home. Who this is for: ✓ Family members supporting an older loved one at home ✓ People exploring safer living options for ageing relatives ✓ Carers wanting to reduce fall risks in the home ✓ Anyone supporting someone living with dementia or mobility challenges In this episode, we cover: ✓ How to assess risks around the home ✓ Practical ways to prevent falls and trips ✓ When equipment like hospital beds may be recommended ✓ How to keep a home feeling familiar and comforting ✓ Small safety adjustments that make a big difference Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider trusted by families across the UK. We specialise in personalised, dignified support — from companionship through to complex care needs — helping people live safely and independently at home. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs calculator: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Check if it's time for care: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK 

What Makes a Great Carer? Insights from Skills for Care. In this episode of the Care Podcast, brought to you by Unique Senior Care, we’re joined by Rachel Shaw and Shirley Way from Skills for Care to talk about careers in adult social care and what it takes to build a strong, compassionate care workforce. We discuss how people enter the care sector, the skills and values that make a great carer, and how organisations like Skills for Care support training, development and professional growth across the industry. Who this is for: ✓ Families wanting to understand the people behind great care ✓ Anyone considering a career in adult social care ✓ Care professionals looking to grow and develop ✓ People interested in how the care sector supports its teams In this video we cover: ✓ How Rachel and Shirley started their careers in care ✓ The role of Skills for Care in supporting the sector ✓ The qualities that make a great carer ✓ Why adult social care can be such a rewarding career ✓ Training, development and opportunities in the care sector ✓ The importance of values and compassion in care About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support Client stories playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWTQ7F68Z63ASUVB3S3UsGmM Moving & Handling Training: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWT53V4ScI01V0uYdm4up58S Further resources and support Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Is it time for care? https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/is-it-time-for-care/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/  https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK 

Thinking of caring for a parent yourself? In this episode we explore what families often underestimate when they try to manage care alone. Jo Cleary is joined by Phil Maundrill, Founder and Director at Unique Senior Care, who shares honest reflections on the realities of family caregiving. Drawing on his personal experience arranging care for his own mum, Phil discusses the emotional, practical and physical pressures families can face when trying to coordinate care themselves. Who this is for: ✓ Families considering caring for a loved one themselves ✓ Adult children supporting ageing parents ✓ Families deciding whether to arrange professional care ✓ Anyone feeling overwhelmed by caregiving responsibilities In this episode we cover: ✓ Why family caregiving can become overwhelming ✓ The pressure and responsibility families often underestimate ✓ How caregiving can affect family relationships and dynamics ✓ The training and safety involved in professional care ✓ Why professional support can reduce stress and prevent burnout ✓ How to start planning the right care package together About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support 🎧 The Care Podcast playlist https://bit.ly/thecarepodcast Care Advice Hub https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Home care cost calculator https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Website https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Join our team https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

When is the right time to arrange home care for a loved one? In this episode we explore why many families delay starting care, and why waiting until a crisis can make the decision harder for everyone involved. Jo Cleary is joined by Phil Maundrill, Founder and Director at Unique Senior Care, who shares insights from both his professional experience and arranging care for his own mum. Together they discuss the emotional barriers families face, and why introducing care early and gently can make the transition far easier. Who this is for: ✓ Families starting to notice changes in a loved one’s health ✓ Adult children supporting ageing parents ✓ Anyone unsure when to introduce home care ✓ Families worried about how a loved one might react to care In this episode we cover: ✓ Why many families delay arranging care ✓ The emotional barriers to accepting support ✓ Why waiting for a crisis can make care harder to introduce ✓ How starting care gently can make the transition easier ✓ Practical ways to introduce a Caregiver gradually ✓ Why being present during the first visits can help build trust About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support 🎧 The Care Podcast playlist https://bit.ly/thecarepodcast Care Advice Hub https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Home care costs calculator https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Website https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Join our team https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

Starting home care and unsure what questions to ask first? In this episode, we explore the things many families wish they had understood earlier when arranging support for a loved one. Jo Cleary is joined by Phil Maundrill, Founder and Director at Unique Senior Care, who shares practical advice drawn from both professional experience and arranging care for his own mum. Together they discuss the questions that can make a real difference when choosing a care provider, from consistency of visits to the ways care can support everyday life beyond the home. Who this is for: ✓ Families considering home care for the first time ✓ Adult children supporting ageing parents ✓ Anyone comparing care providers ✓ Families wanting to feel more confident when arranging care In this episode we cover: ✓ Why consistency of Caregivers and visit times matters ✓ Questions families should ask early in the care journey ✓ How care can support outings and quality of life ✓ Help with GP, hospital and other appointments ✓ How care can relieve pressure on family members ✓ Why it helps to think ahead about future care needs About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support 🎧 The Care Podcast playlist https://bit.ly/thecarepodcast Care Advice Hub https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Home care cost calculator https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Website https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Join our team https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

How do you know if home care is working well? In this episode, we explore the practical and emotional signs that care is more than just tasks — it’s companionship, confidence and trust. Jo Cleary is joined by Phil Maundrill, Founder and Director at Unique Senior Care, who shares what families should look for once care begins, and how to feel reassured that a loved one is receiving the support they deserve. Who this is for: ✓ Families who have recently arranged home care ✓ Anyone unsure whether their current care service feels right ✓ Adult children supporting ageing parents ✓ Family members looking for reassurance about care quality In this episode we cover: ✓ The difference between care tasks and genuine companionship ✓ Signs your loved one feels comfortable and content ✓ Why consistency of Caregivers matters ✓ How to introduce care gently in the early stages ✓ What to do if something doesn’t feel quite right ✓ Why regular communication with your care provider is essential About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. We specialise in dignified, personalised support — from companionship to complex needs — helping people live safely and independently in their own homes. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: 🎧 The Care Podcast playlist: https://bit.ly/thecarepodcast Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Home care costs calculator: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

In this episode of the Care Podcast, Phil,  Founder and Director of Unique Senior Care, shares his personal experience of arranging care for his mum. We talk openly about why choosing home care can feel so emotionally difficult, especially when guilt, family pressure and responsibility are involved. If you’re currently struggling with a care decision, this conversation will help you understand why those feelings are normal, and why asking for support can be the right way forward. Who this is for: ✓ Adult children supporting ageing parents ✓ Family carers feeling overwhelmed or stretched ✓ Anyone feeling guilty about arranging home care ✓ Families navigating difficult care decisions In this episode we cover: ✓ Why putting care in place can feel traumatic at first ✓ The guilt many families experience when stepping back ✓ Trusting someone else to care for your loved one ✓ Managing family dynamics when relatives live at a distance ✓ Recognising when someone’s wellbeing means change is needed ✓ Why seeking support can protect both you and your parent About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning home care provider, trusted by families across the UK. With years of experience and a commitment to excellence, we specialise in dignified, personalised support, from companionship to complex needs. Our expert teams are here to help your loved ones live safely and independently, every step of the way. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share, as it helps more families find trusted support. Explore more support: Client Stories Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWTQ7F68Z63ASUVB3S3UsGmM Further resources and support: Learning Centre: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/learning-centre/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK

Life With Epilepsy After a Life-Changing Seizure-Related Accident In this episode of The Care Podcast, Angharad and her mum, Jo, talk openly about what life has been like living with severe epilepsy — and how one seizure led to a serious accident that changed everything. Angharad developed epilepsy as a teenager. Over time, frequent and unpredictable seizures affected her memory, confidence, and independence. In her early twenties, a seizure caused a serious accident, leading to long-term physical injuries and a lengthy period of rehabilitation. In this conversation, Angharad and Jo share what everyday life has been like since, and what support has helped them feel safer and less alone. Who this episode is for: ✓ Families supporting someone with epilepsy or neurological conditions ✓ Parents caring for an adult child with complex needs ✓ Anyone trying to understand what day-to-day life with epilepsy can really look like ✓ People exploring care, companionship, or managed support In this episode, we discuss: ✓ How epilepsy affected Angharad’s memory and independence ✓ What happened after the seizure that caused her accident ✓ Why companionship matters just as much as safety ✓ The constant worry families live with when seizures happen without warning ✓ How the right support can protect independence rather than take it away About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning, regulated home care provider trusted by families across the UK. We support people to live safely and independently at home, with carefully matched Caregivers and consistent, well-managed care. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this episode helpful, please like, subscribe, and share — it helps more families find honest, practical support. Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/learning-centre/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Listen to more episodes of The Care Podcast: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PL8fboT9aroWTQ7F68Z63ASUVB3S3UsGmM Follow us: Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK Home Care Advice Hub | Unique Senior Care Explore care advice, services, tips, videos & client stories. Our Advice Hub supports you at every step of your care journey with expert guidance.  

In this episode of the Care Podcast, we’re joined by Carrie Caladine and Sianead O’Connor, specialists in later life planning from The Right Legal Group — a regulated law firm dedicated to helping families prepare for the future with clarity and compassion. Together, they break down the legal myths and common misconceptions around Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA), wills, and planning for care costs — including why waiting until a crisis is too late and what steps you can take today to protect your family and your wishes. Who this is for: ✓ Family carers unsure when or how to set up a Power of Attorney ✓ Anyone planning ahead for care or support later in life ✓ Professionals supporting people with complex care needs ✓ People confused by wills, LPAs or asset protection In this episode we cover: ✓ The difference between Property & Finance vs Health & Welfare LPAs ✓ Why next of kin and executors may not have legal authority during someone’s life ✓ What happens if you lose capacity without an LPA in place ✓ Common mistakes with DIY forms — and how to avoid them ✓ Ways to structure LPAs if you don’t have close family ✓ How to protect your wishes with extra guidance for your attorneys ✓ Honest answers to “Can I give my house to my kids?” About The Right Legal Group: The Right Legal Group is a national network of legal firms specialising in wills, probate, and later life planning. Carrie and Sianead are committed to making legal advice accessible and personal — helping people put the right protections in place before it’s too late. They also deliver talks across the UK to raise awareness and support better conversations around future planning. 📍 Learn more: https://www.therightlegalgroup.co.uk/ About Unique Senior Care: Unique Senior Care is an award-winning, CQC-regulated home care provider trusted by families across the UK. From companionship to complex needs, we offer dignified, personalised support to help people live independently at home for longer. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK  

 In this episode of the Care Podcast by Unique Senior Care, we speak with Dominique Kent, CEO of Bluecrest Wellness and a highly respected figure in the UK care sector. With a career spanning nearly two decades — including her role in founding and scaling the award-winning home care provider The Good Care Group — Dominique brings unmatched insight into the importance of early health screening and prevention. She shares how regular health checks can help people take control of their wellbeing, spot potential issues early, and live with greater confidence and independence as they age. From lifestyle changes to affordable home testing, this conversation is full of practical ideas and reassurance for anyone thinking more seriously about their health. Who this is for: ✓ Family carers thinking about long-term health planning ✓ Adults exploring private or proactive health screening options ✓ Anyone interested in early intervention and wellbeing ✓ Professionals working in the care or wellness space In this episode we cover: ✓ What Bluecrest Wellness offers and how it works ✓ The role of early detection in preventing long-term health issues ✓ Why people delay health checks — and how to overcome barriers ✓ Home testing, affordability, and the role of Integrated Care Boards ✓ Dominique’s own lifestyle changes after regular screening ✓ How shifting attitudes post-COVID are reshaping health behaviours About Unique Senior Care: Unique Senior Care is an award-winning, CQC-regulated home care provider trusted by families across the UK. From companionship to complex needs, we offer dignified, personalised support to help people live independently at home for longer. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK  

In this episode of the Care Podcast, we’re joined by Sarah Cooper, an Admiral Nurse and Deputy Clinical Lead for Dementia UK’s National Clinics Programme. Sarah shares calm, compassionate advice for anyone supporting a loved one following a dementia diagnosis. Whether you're feeling overwhelmed, unsure where to start, or struggling with day-to-day care, this conversation offers clear, honest guidance on what to expect, where to find help, and how to look after your own wellbeing as a carer. Who this is for: ✓ Families recently facing a dementia diagnosis ✓ People caring for a parent, partner, or friend with dementia ✓ Those unsure where to turn for reliable advice or emotional support ✓ Anyone looking to understand the role of Admiral Nurses In this episode we cover: ✓ What to do if you’re worried about a loved one’s memory ✓ The benefits of early diagnosis — and how to approach it sensitively ✓ Common fears and practical ways to manage them ✓ How assistive technology can support safety and independence ✓ Why self-care for carers is essential, not selfish ✓ How to access one-to-one support from Admiral Nurses About Sarah Cooper: Sarah is an Admiral Nurse with Dementia UK and Deputy Lead for the charity’s expanding national clinics programme. With a background in mental health nursing and family support, she brings deep insight into the emotional and practical realities of dementia care — helping families feel heard, understood, and better equipped for what lies ahead. Useful Links from This Episode: 🧠 Dementia UK Helpline (Speak to an Admiral Nurse): https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/dementia-helpline/ 🎧 Dementia UK Podcast: https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/our-podcast/ 🎓 Free Dementia Webinars: https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/supportive-resources/our-webinars/ 🧰 Assistive Tech Advice: https://www.dementiauk.org/get-support/assistive-technology/ About Unique Senior Care: Unique Senior Care is an award-winning, CQC-regulated home care provider trusted by families across the UK. From companionship to complex needs, we offer dignified, personalised support to help people live independently at home for longer. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK  

In this episode of the Care Podcast, we're joined by Dr Jane Townson OBE, CEO of the Homecare Association, to explore one of the most important questions families face: how do you find a care provider you can truly trust? With a background spanning science, public health, social care leadership, and national policy, Jane offers practical and reassuring advice on how to make confident, informed decisions about home care — including what to look out for, what questions to ask, and what red flags to avoid. Who this is for: ✓ Family carers searching for reliable home care support ✓ People planning care for a parent, partner or friend ✓ Professionals navigating care options on someone’s behalf ✓ Anyone unsure where to begin with home care In this episode we cover: ✓ The signs of a well-run and person-centred care provider ✓ How to spot good culture and strong leadership ✓ What technology can (and can’t) do to support independence ✓ The role of dignity, choice, and goal-setting in quality care ✓ How to research care providers — beyond just CQC ratings ✓ Why listening is the most important thing a provider can do About Dr Jane Townson Jane is the Chief Executive of the Homecare Association and was awarded an OBE for her services to social care. She brings decades of experience across bioscience, public health, and community-based care — and is a leading voice in shaping the future of home care in the UK. About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning, CQC-regulated home care provider trusted by families across the UK. From companionship to complex needs, we offer dignified, personalised support to help people live independently at home for longer. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/ https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/ https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK  

In this episode of the Care Podcast by Unique Senior Care, we speak with Gary Strong — a highly experienced paramedic and educator — who also knows first-hand what it’s like to arrange care for a loved one. Gary shares his personal journey of supporting both his father and sister through complex care needs, offering a rare and honest perspective from someone who has stood on both sides of the care system. From professional insight to deeply human moments, this is a powerful listen for anyone navigating their own family care journey. Who this is for: ✓ Family carers feeling overwhelmed or unsure where to start ✓ People supporting a parent or sibling with dementia or complex needs ✓ Anyone arranging care from a distance ✓ Health and care professionals wanting insight from lived experience In this episode we cover: ✓ The emotional impact of arranging care for a parent ✓ Why professional support is often easier for families to accept ✓ What helped Gary choose the right care provider ✓ The importance of consistency, communication and empathy ✓ Coping with guilt, grief and emotional fatigue as a family carer ✓ How professional carers helped restore independence and dignity About Unique Senior Care Unique Senior Care is an award-winning, CQC-regulated home care provider trusted by families across the UK. From companionship to complex needs, we offer dignified, personalised support to help people live independently at home for longer. 📞 Call us for advice: 0808 134 1161 👍 If you found this helpful, please like, subscribe and share — it helps more families find trusted support. 🎧 Listen to more episodes of the Care Podcast: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/podcasts/ Explore more support: Care Advice Hub: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/care-advice-hub/ Website: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk Home care costs: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/home-care-costs-calculator/ Join our team: https://www.uniquecare.co.uk/carer-jobs/ Follow us on social media: https://www.instagram.com/unique.senior.care/  https://www.linkedin.com/company/unique-senior-care/  https://www.facebook.com/UniqueSeniorCareUK