Betty’s Remarkable Recovery Inspires Walfinch’s New Community Wellness Sessions

When Lisa Souley, Registered Care Manager at Walfinch Newcastle, arrived for her daily one-hour visit, she immediately saw that something wasn’t right. Concerned, she contacted the local Occupational Therapy team straight away.

“They came out the same day and referred me to the rehabilitation centre at Cramlington Hospital,” says Betty. It turned out she had hairline fractures in both knees. Physiotherapists prescribed a programme of gentle, seated exercises – which Betty took to with determination.

In the centre, I did all my exercises daily. I was inspired by another patient who was 101 and still going! she says with a smile.

Walfinch supports the Royal Osteoporosis Society (ROS), whose Clinical Advisor, Sarah Leyland, explains: “Fractures take many forms, and not all require surgery. Some heal over time with rest and the right kind of activity. Good nutrition and exercises that improve balance and stability are important for everyone.”

By the time Betty was discharged, Lisa could hardly believe the transformation. “She was a different woman. I told her it was like a miracle. She could walk again – you could even see it in her face,” she says.

Betty is now back on her feet, cooking her own meals, and only needs a half-hour care visit each morning. “These few exercises have brightened me up completely,” she says. “I still do them four times a day – even while I’m sitting down knitting!”

Inspired by Betty’s recovery, Walfinch Newcastle is launching local Time to Thrive activity sessions – part of a nationwide initiative from Walfinch to bring wellbeing-focused care to communities.

Seeing Betty’s transformation pushed us to bring these sessions forward,” says Idris Nasar, Managing Director at Walfinch Newcastle. “They’ll be free, open to everyone – not just our care clients – and focused on gentle, enjoyable activities like seated yoga, with refreshments and time to chat.

Organised by Walfinch carers and held in a local community centre, Time to Thrive is about more than exercise. “Care isn’t just about helping people live longer – it’s about helping them thrive,” says Idris.

Every Walfinch client receiving an hour or more of care is now offered at least ten minutes of activity – whether it’s walking, gardening, arts and crafts, singing, or seated exercises. “We want more people to experience the kind of change Betty has,” he adds. “This is just the beginning.”

If Betty’s story inspires you, explore Walfinch’s home care services, franchise and career opportunities.