Spotlight on Sandwell Crossroads
Tell us what you do
Our charitable focus is in providing family respite care and support at home. We also provide a range of advice and guidance to signpost family carers and the people who they are caring for. The range of services dovetails so is holistic and person centred, with the aim of providing quality innovative care.
What is your proudest achievement?
We offer an inclusive range of services i.e., 24/7 support service, training for family carers in their own home, reducing the risk of injury and unnecessary hospital admissions. These skills are transferrable when finally their caring role has come to an end that can be used in the work place to build a worthwhile career in care. We are now providing specialist services throughout Birmingham, Sandwell, Walsall and Wolverhampton.
What is your experience of support received from SCVO (if relevant)?
They are very supportive. They keep us informed with the political and local agenda for health and social care commissioning and changes. They bring people together and facilitate lots of interesting discussions and debates so are very valued by the voluntary sector.
What is the most valuable lesson you have learnt about working with people in Sandwell?
Sandwell is a very different area to the rest of the country, which is diverse and interesting. It is essential when assessing people who use our services to be respectful and a good listener and understand their daily living needs so these can be implemented and maintained, as a quality outcome.
What are your plans for the future and some of the challenges you face?
We want to make sure that we are sustainable and can continue to deliver our services and respond to what the market needs. The challenge is funding. We would like to continue our bereavement service if funding will allow, as this service helps with the transition of a caring role, enabling people back into work, that also reduces isolation and increases wellbeing.
How can SCVO help to support your organisation in the future?
Their communication and information is vital to our sector and a best friend to us all, helping us survive through difficult times.
For further information 0121 553 6483 or view their website: www.sandwellcrossroads.org