A RETIRED policeman from Northwich who has now found his calling as a caregiver has been lauded by his grateful clients.

They have described Gilbert Martin, 57, as a ‘saint’, with Michelle Lawson, registered care manager of Home Instead Senior Care Northwich and Knutsford stating that ‘more people like him’ are needed in the care sector.

Gil decided on a change of career after personal experience of caring for his father, who had sustained a brain injury, and also his mother-in-law, who had dementia.

Since joining Home Instead two years ago, he has never looked back and says that being a caregiver is the most rewarding job he has ever had.’

Gil visits his clients in their own homes, providing personalised care and companionship, and when not with his clients, he spends his time producing a regular newsletter for them.

When he was introduced to an elderly couple living with dementia, they felt lonely and isolated.

But through sharing stories, Gil learned that his clients were missing the ‘high life’ they used to enjoy in their younger years, such as trips and meals out and a sherry in the pub.

Before the coronavirus pandemic hit, Gil stepped in to organise days out with great success and satisfaction all round, and he is hoping that these can resume once safe.

Speaking about the need for more people to step into care roles, Gil said: “I think I will be doing this until I need a carer myself.

“My life has become better since becoming a caregiver and I am so proud to be part of the Home Instead family.

“I think people might be surprised about how rewarding being a caregiver is.”

Michelle added: “We are so lucky to have Gil on our caregiving team.

“All of our caregivers have turned out to be outstanding friends to our clients, and now we are reaching out to people in the local community to care like Gil.”

Home Instead Senior Care currently has 10 vacancies for caregivers in Northwich, and those interested are urged to call 01606 800101 or visit homeinstead.co.uk/Northwich-knutsford