Gompels staff go above and beyond for distressed customer

STAFF at Gompels Pharmacy have been praised for their quick thinking and patience after a lady with Alzheimer’s became very distressed in the store.

Susan Farmer and Anne Boulton were quick to respond when a customer with severe Alzheimer’s became distressed in the shop. They phoned Dementia UK and were given advice on how to deal with the situation.

Both women are trained  Dementia Friends and have family members with dementia.

Anne said, “It’s something we deal with every day. We always look after our customers and give them the support they need. My mother has dementia so I know how I would feel if it was her in that situation and how I would want someone to look after her.”

Sue said, “We really care about our customers and notice when something isn’t right and they need help. Our customers are very loyal which allows us to get to know them; we can then tell when something is wrong.”

Ruth Emmett, one of the pharmacists at Gompels said, “The ladies were fantastic and knew exactly what to do. They spoke to an advisor at Dementia UK who gave them advice and the situation was resolved.  They made the lady feel safe and comfortable which is so important. They went above and beyond and they should be commended.

“The Gompels motto is: Making life easier for all its customers, and they certainly did this on that day.”

A Dementia UK spokesperson commented,  “ We are pleased the pharmacy called us and we were glad to be of help. Our Admiral Nursing Direct helpline is free and available to anyone in the UK. We are able to offer advice and support to people with dementia, their families, health professionals, as well as people who work in local communities and need help.”

Ruth will be taking part in the Stonehenge Trek on 3rd September to raise money for the Alzheimer’s Society.

Ruth said, “Myself and a group of friends, will be tackling the 26-mile trek and we would love to raise as much money as possible for a great cause.

“Over the past few months, I’ve learnt a lot more about Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s and how they effect people’s daily lives. But not just those with the diseases, but family and friends and carers as well.

“A lot of progress has been made in researching the disease but I’d love to raise awareness and more importantly, funds to help this continue. Please dig deep, your generosity, help and support is very much appreciated.”

To sponsor Ruth, visit www.justgiving.com/ruth-emmett1

Admiral Nursing Direct is open seven days a week from 9am to 5pm, and on Wednesday and Thursday evenings from 6pm to 9pm. Please call 0800 888 6678 or email direct@dementiauk.org