Alzheimer’s Support’s support workers are basking in a golden glow after being given high praise from families and professionals in a routine review by the Care Quality Commission.

The care watchdog said it did not need to mount a full inspection of the charity’s home support service after receiving glowing responses.

Its report said: “All 18 people and relatives we spoke with had nothing but praise for the service. They expressed gratitude for the service which they said is ‘first class’ and ‘like gold’.

The charity's trained support workers provide companionable home visits of at least two hours each, take their clients on outings, help them continue with hobbies or provide practical help with shopping trips or appointments. This also provides family carers with a much-needed break.

The CQC also asked people if they trusted the workers who came into their homes, if they were ever late and how good the communication was, and asked for general comments.

One respondent told them: “The service provides a gentle introduction to having support. The staff build such therapeutic relationships.”

Another said: “It is very clever how they come up with ways to keep people stimulated. The diverse ways they think of is phenomenal.”

And a third said: “It’s a wonderful service. Long may it reign.”

Monique Bentley, Alzheimer’s Support’s head of registered services said: “I know how important our home support is for the people living with dementia and families who rely on it, so I’m delighted by the feedback.

“Our support workers help people retain the independence that allows them to live at home for longer. They are carefully matched with their clients and the same support worker comes each time so they get to know each other well. They encourage the people they support to get out and about, get back to hobbies they have enjoyed in the past and reconnect with their communities.”

She said demand had grown since the start of the pandemic as more families needed support. She said: “We urgently need more support workers across Wiltshire. It’s a lovely job, suitable for all ages and backgrounds and very flexible around family life. You don’t need a background in care to be a great dementia support worker.”

To find out more about Home Support service or to apply to become a support worker, visit alzheimerswiltshire.org.uk