Brokers put their clients in control of care

THREE people with a background in care and the voluntary sector have established a new business offering help to the vulnerable in our society.

Be In Control Brokerage is the brainchild of long-standing friends Glynis Shaw and Dorothy Wilson and their colleague Robert Taylor, currently a health professional.

They offer a service which assesses, assists, involves and advises people with an individual care budget or other funding to help them choose the best care package option.

Dorothy, from Shaw, and Glynis, from Fitton Hill, are convinced there is a need for their management skills in this increasingly complex area.

Glynis said: “By providing a client-based service we will improve the quality of life for our clients. There are many ways we can help.”

Be In Control Brokerage has already established a database of 70 would-be personal assistants, who will be vetted by the business and operations manager Robert, from Royton, who has experience and expertise in this area.

Strategies manager Dorothy said: “There are many people who can make a real difference, a real contribution, to the lives of people who need help, be that friendships, helps with trips, or home visits to help with household chores.

“We intend to ensure that both parties, our clients and customers and our personal assistants, enjoy the experience and wake up everyday looking forward to their visits.”

The brokerage will produce support plans, make “best possible” matches, assist with employment issues, contracts, supervision and, should the need arise, conflict management.

“We are a dynamic and experienced team, we all have a background in care and voluntary work, and we set high standards,” added office manager Glynis.

The business has been listed on the Oldham Council Approved Small Providers’ List.

The Government and local authorities are encouraging people to take up individualised budgets.

It is estimated that there will be 2,000 people in Oldham in this category by the end of 2012.