Exploring the life of Frank, his involvement in the community and support from Be Caring.

Frank is the oldest client of the Cross Gates & District Good Neighbours Scheme in Leeds, and our oldest service user at 103 years young!

Recently Frank has been making headlines, for his inspiring story and positive outlook on life. As the oldest member of the Good Neighbours Scheme, Frank has been an important part of the community for many years.

This article in the Cross Gates & District Good Neighbours Scheme website, explores the life of Frank and his involvement in the community.

Frank’s Early Life

Frank was born in 1919, in a small town in Cornwall, and grew up as an active member of the Sea Scouts and local church choir. He later joined the Royal Navy, serving during World War II.

Frank remains a lively and engaging personality, with a sharp wit and infectious smile. Franks’s involvement in the community has made him an integral part of the Cross Gates & District Good Neighbours Scheme. Since January 2021, Frank has received care from our colleagues in Leeds, who provide him with two care calls per day and a regular care team.

Support from Be Caring: Our Colleagues in Leeds

His regular Care Worker Claire first joined the sector working in a care home as an activities organiser, which made her a perfect match for supporting Frank, she shared, “I loved spending quality time with the service users, having a chat or a cup of tea with them. We used to do activities of their choice that made them happy.”

When asked about Frank, Claire shared, “Our Frank does his own washing, cooking, and cleaning. He is very independent and has had an amazing life, he volunteered his services at a young age to go in the Sea Scouts and has been all across the world.”

Claire also shared “I enjoy my job thoroughly and get 100% job satisfaction in this role, it is the happiest I have been in a long time with my working role, knowing I am making people happy and knowing they can continue living at home where they are happy.”

She explained that to be a Care Worker, you must be passionate about the job and the people you care for, “Be patient and competent and have excellent communication skills to look after their well-being by providing companionship. Assist with personal care and deliver essential support around health, hydration, and nutrition. Be calm and be a good listener to build a strong relationship so they can flourish, encourage independence so clients are happy and thrive in their homes.”

Claire believes in going above and beyond with the people she supports. By taking the time to relax and chat with people like Frank, you make them happy, provide them with companionship and prevent loneliness in older age.

Frank is a shining example of the kind of person that our Care Workers like Claire are so passionate about helping.

Join Our Colleagues in Leeds

If you have the right values and want to join an organisation which promotes person-centred care, please apply here today.