Resident: Barry, 80
Location: Bodmin, Cornwall
Support Team: Community Health & Wellbeing Workers (CHWWs) Amy Clemow and Sam Allen
Engagement: 32+ face‑to‑face appointments
Overview
Barry, an 80‑year‑old man living alone, first met CHWWs Sam and Amy from the Bodmin Way project through a simple doorstep conversation. That initial chat began a supportive partnership that would continue for months and ultimately transform Barry’s life.
Drawn by their warmth and willingness to help, Barry agreed to an introduction appointment. Over time, he built a strong, trusting relationship with Sam and Amy, whose ongoing visits and advocacy became a vital part of his wellbeing.
Amy Clemow
Community Health and Wellbeing Worker (CHWW)
Sam Allen
Community Health and Wellbeing Worker (CHWW)
Challenges Barry Faced
Barry had been living with multiple long‑term, complex health issues, including:
- Severe osteoarthritis in his hips and knees
- Spinal fractures
- Ischaemic heart disease and angina
- Recurring chest infections
These conditions were made significantly worse by the cold, damp and mould present in his rented home. The property also had multiple concrete steps leading to the entrance, an ongoing hazard given his mobility issues. Despite repeated concerns, his landlord refused both repairs and adaptations, and Barry’s limited heating left him frequently unwell.
As concerns grew, safeguarding alerts were raised by several agencies, including CHWWs, paramedics, adult social care, occupational therapy, and Barry’s own family.
Barry had also been on the Home Choice register for 17 years. Although he had assisted bidding, he often felt pressured to bid on unsuitable properties, holding out hope for a chance to remain in Bodmin or move to St Austell.
How Sam and Amy Supported Barry
To advocate for Barry’s safety and wellbeing, Sam and Amy provided intensive, hands‑on support. Their work included:
Housing Advocacy
- Completing a full welfare assessment
- Coordinating with an Occupational Therapist to provide clinical evidence
- Ensuring all information was submitted for an urgent review of his housing banding
- Supporting Barry during periods of illness, including arranging GP appointments and calling ambulances when required
During Ill Health
Throughout Barry’s episodes of severe illness, Sam and Amy remained closely involved, ensuring he received timely medical attention and was never left to cope alone.
A Life‑Changing Move
Following the updated housing banding, Barry was finally offered a safe, suitable home. Sam and Amy were so committed to ensuring his move went smoothly that they returned from annual leave to support him. They transported his belongings themselves to prevent any delays in getting him settled.
Additional Practical Support
Barry also received help with:
- A referral to Hidden Help to furnish his new home
- Updating Housing Benefit and Council Tax
- Securing a crisis and care award to cover rent in advance
- Setting up electricity in his new property
- Accessing a personal health budget for essential items such as a fridge freezer, cooker and electric armchair
- Purchasing further essentials (and helping him celebrate his 80th birthday) using the CHWW Enablement Fund
The Impact
The difference to Barry’s quality of life has been profound. He now lives in a warm, safe home with a walk‑in shower he can use independently. His family have noticed remarkable improvements, his son shared that Barry no longer coughs constantly, offering clear proof of how much healthier his new environment is.
For Sam and Amy, supporting Barry has been a privilege and a standout moment in their work as CHWWs.
Barry’s Words
“I feel I must tell you about Sam and Amy, who went beyond their call of duty in helping me to move to a new flat. Now I, who had nothing, have everything. I cannot convey how happy I am. Sam and Amy went beyond what is possible and I thank them from the bottom of my heart.”
Family Feedback
“The difference Sam and Amy have made to my father and the stress released for the family, I cannot find words to say. I want them to know the difference they have made to our lives and to our dad’s. I haven’t seen him this happy for many years and able to have a life.”
