Our story
A story of two families
Our Founder Ben created Chaytor & Swann as a tribute to the memories of his parents and parents-in-law, who needed live-in care.
Chaytor
Where it began
We first used a carer when my father suffered a fall and broke his neck. To make it more complicated, my father had Parkinson’s with associated dementia, and was largely bed and home bound as a result.
At first my mother was adamant she was capable of looking after my father on her own; she had been a nurse herself, after all. But the strain on her physical and mental wellbeing meant this was unsustainable.
During those early months we had a succession of different carers, until eventually we found a lovely carer, Lucy, who ended up looking after my father until he passed away almost three years later.
Live-in carers need their breaks too, so we also managed interim carers, maybe two to three weeks every two to three months. Our experience taught us that a good relationship with a care agency who understands your needs is essential.
“Having a good relationship with a care agency who understands what you are looking for is essential.”
Our live-in carer, Lucy
Seven years, and there at the end for both
After my father passed away, it wasn’t long before my mother asked for Lucy to come and help look after her in her old age. She had no obvious health issues and was physically more than capable. However, with the initial onset of dementia, she wanted the comfort of someone in her house permanently. She was also very lonely and craving company, and she saw Lucy as a friend.
Before long, Lucy became an essential support as my mother’s health deteriorated. Having a carer at home keeping an eye on her was a great comfort to all our family in those days.
Lucy was with us for a total of seven years over a ten-year period, and was there at the end for both my parents. Both died at home, surrounded by familiar things and their families. For them, and for us, this was an immense privilege not afforded to everyone… and one we couldn’t have made happen without proper live-in care.
Swann
A very different experience
My mother-in-law had a very different experience: a terminal illness during Covid, leading to a difficult time at home with care provided by her daughters. The pandemic made finding support very hard. On reflection, we know a carer would have provided invaluable support, and perhaps a more comfortable end.
My father-in-law’s final months, however, were transformed by a wonderful male carer called Sam. Again, he provided support, company and independence: they went on drives, they watched sport, and Sam gently re-invigorated my father-in-law’s lost appetite with his wonderful cooking; even hosting lunches for the family and various of his friends.
“Sam's signature fillet of cod became quite the family favourite!”
Chaytor & Swann is a tribute to their memories. Good care and thoughtful planning can be transformational for you and your loved ones.