Cavendish Homecare embraces “John’s Campaign” approach to care

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Key Takeaways

Justice for family carers

The core message is that no one should enforce a disconnection between patients and their families. Those who love the patient have “expert knowledge” of their needs, which is vital for providing comfort and reducing distress.

Overcoming isolation

Disconnecting a person with dementia from their loved ones, especially during a hospital stay, can cause a permanent decline in their wellbeing. The campaign ensures patients always have a familiar voice by their side to help them stay connected to reality.

Holistic family engagement

Truly effective care requires staff to be fully engaged with the family’s desires. By treating family members as partners in care, nurses can provide a much more compassionate and positive experience for the patient.

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Dementia and John’s Campaign

Dementia is incurable and terminal, yet its progression is not linear. People with dementia need the right care. This is vital to avoid causing them extra distress. John’s Campaign understands and respects that individuals are the best judges of what is essential in their own care and wellbeing. It aims to inspire carers and nurses, from all specialty areas, especially dementia care, to respect the rights and choices of everyone who needs care.

John’s Campaign is named after and honours the late Dr. John Gerrard. John was denied the access to friendly familiar care that he deserved in 2014. John was admitted to hospital with Alzheimer’s during a viral outbreak. He was separated from his family. When he returned home, he felt disconnected from reality.

Their message is simple: no one should enforce disconnection between family carers and those who need their expert knowledge and their love.

In the wake of his death, John’s daughter, Nicci Gerrard, cofounded John’s Campaign with Julia Jones, whose mother, June, also lived well with dementia (both Alzheimer’s and vascular) for many years before her death in 2018.

John’s heart-breaking story is more relatable than ever with Covid-19 affecting so many lives in the past year. Every patient needs someone they know or love to be alongside them.

Adopting John’s Campaign

At Cavendish Homecare, we are not only inspired, but we are adapting the John’s campaign approach into our care systems. Our nurses and carers all understand the level of care that is required for all patients and their families. We are in an age where all levels of care should have the same approach as John’s Campaign towards dementia.

John’s Campaign tries to give people a voice – to share information, experiences or enthusiasm. Nursing Manager, Maggie Candy, published an article in 2021 on the Johns Campaign’s website. She explains that every family deserves a positive experience. Friendly and compassionate staff should provide this during all stages of care. As a nursing consultant at Cavendish Homecare, Maggie understands something important. It is very helpful when staff listen to the family. They should focus on the family’s needs and their desires for the patient’s care.

How can Cavendish Homecare help?

At Cavendish Homecare, we are experts in providing dementia homecare for clients who want to remain in their own homes. When it comes to your health and wellbeing, choosing the right homecare package is of utmost importance and navigating this process can be overwhelming. With Cavendish Homecare by your side, you’ll have the support you need to remain safely at home while enjoying elevated health and wellbeing.

If you would like to enquire about our homecare services, contact us on, 02030085210 or email us at info@cavendishhomecare.com.

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