HOME HELP

BY NICKIE PETTITT

My name is Nickie and I set up Gastons Home Help after my father sadly died from terminal cancer. He lived 40 miles away and it was a huge adjustment to take care of him. During the later stages of his illness it made me realise what was missing in the industry. He didn’t need a carer or personal care, but someone to visit each day to make sure he was still eating and drinking efficiently and raise any concerns to his relatives.

I set up Gastons to build a bridge for other families and their relatives to take the strain off and give them peace of mind. Each plan is tailored for individuals so their needs are met. Some of my clients have a 2-hour clean once a week, others I visit up to three times a day to give them a wake-up call, breakfast, put some washing on, change bedding, prep a lunch and an evening call to check in and make a light evening meal and give them a bit of companionship. These small check-ins have been invaluable in keeping people safe whilst keeping their independence at home. I communicate regularly with relatives and respond to queries or concerns out of office hours. I know that sometimes just knowing relatives are ok gives peace of mind and it’s my duty to make sure that happens. I visit many clients in the Felpham area. The business is a domestic support-only service, with no personal care involved and it’s just me which means I build a great rapport with my clients. I hold a full enhanced DBS, Level 1 and 2 hygiene certificate and I undertake regular training courses. Everyone is offered a free pre-assessment visit to give a good evaluation of what is needed, to see if I can help and to introduce myself.

Please visit www.gastonshomehelp.co.uk to find out more or contact me on 07949823296 or email: gastonshomehelp@yahoo.com

Shakshuka

Shakshuka is a North African and Middle Eastern dish. It makes a wonderful spicy brunch or supper for a cold winter’s day.

Preparation time: 10 mins Cooking time: to 30-40 mins Serves: 4 with bread

Ingredients

• 4 tbsp olive oil

• 1 onion, finely sliced

• 1 red pepper, diced

• 1 green pepper, diced

• 6 garlic cloves, crushed

• 2 tsp sweet paprika

Method

• ½ tsp cumin seeds

• ½-1 tsp cayenne pepper

• 800g tinned tomatoes (use the best quality you can find)

• 2 tsp soft brown sugar

• 1 tbsp lemon juice

• 4-8 eggs, depending on hunger

• Small bunch of fresh coriander, roughly chopped

• Heat the oil in a large frying pan (with a lid) and add the onion. Fry gently until golden, then add the peppers and cook until they are soft. Stir in the garlic and spices and cook for another minute or two.

• Pour in the tomatoes and mash roughly. Stir in the sugar and lemon juice. Bring to the boil, then turn down the heat and simmer for 20-30 minutes. Taste and season. Add a little more cayenne if you like your dishes spicier.

• Make 4-8 hollows in the sauce and break an eggs gently into each one. Season lightly, and turn the heat down as low as possible, cover the pan with the lid and cook for about 10 minutes until the eggs are just set. Sprinkle with coriander and serve with crusty bread.