Wirral’s Nicola is caring champion

Dec 12 2012 by Linda Foo Guest, Birkenhead News

A BIRKENHEAD mum was named Caregiver of the Year. Nicola McKeever was awarded the accolade by Home Instead Senior Care for the work she does for the Wirral branch.

Nicola collected her award in front of 480 guests at a glittering dinner in Liverpool. She was accompanied by her husband, the former British boxing champion Jamie McKeever and her Nan, Dollie Dodd

Nicola, a mum-of-three was nominated by Cath and Mike Chalton, owners of Home Instead Senior Care in Wirral.

She was selected from the five regional finalists to collect the award.

Cath said: “Nicola is flexible and responsive to her clients’ needs, always going the extra mile when required.

“One of our less physically able clients has said that she feels beautiful after Nicola has attended her for her personal care visits as she always ensures the lady’s make up is perfect, her jewellery matches her outfits and her hair immaculate.

“She has won the respect and friendship of all her clients and in many cases is seen to be part of the family. Nicola is one of those people who sees and feels the needs of the people she works with, she knows instinctively when to offer help and when to ease back from a situation, her care is always delivered with love and patience.

“Despite having a busy family live, Nicola and Jamie have three sons, she is keen to develop professionally and is currently studying to complete the CQF level 3 in Care and is always willing to attend any extra training courses we hold.”

Nicola began working in care after losing her mum-in-law to cancer at a young age.

She added: “I came across an advert for Home Instead, having lost my mother-in-law and seeing my dear Nan growing older I decided I wanted to give something back, so I applied and I was lucky enough to get a job.

“My training began with a fantastic welcome from a fantastic team, their knowledge has helped so much and the continued support from my team is phenomenal.

“My job has helped me to help others, including my lovely Nan. For example, my Nan recently had a fall and the impact was quite traumatic and left her unable to do many simple day to day tasks. It felt natural to help and using all I had learnt she was soon fit and well.

“I feel really privileged to work with our fantastic team at the Wirral office, without their support and hard work I would not be here. I would also like to thank my own little team, my family.”