The project, which began in 2022 following the award of a bursary from the Insurance Corporation, runs within Kelly Marquis’ Paramedic Practitioner role. Providing free health, wellbeing, and home assessments to islanders over the age of 80 who meet the project criteria, with the aim of providing support to the ageing community, helping them to stay safe and well in the comfort of their own homes.
Ms Marquis said: “We initially shared bottles with service users as a nice gesture during our visits, in addition to the card and birthday cake they receive, but soon realised the health and lifestyle benefits they were providing following several feedback comments from those using them.
“The structure of the bottle allows sipping without having to lift the bottle, it prevents spills, and with the help of a carabiner, can easily be attached to a mobility aid, allowing users to take water with them where previously they may have been unable to do so.”
Tania Sargent, customer service manager at Guernsey Water, said: “We were so impressed by the project and its positive impact on the community. We understand the importance of staying hydrated, but also appreciate that it is easier said than done for a lot of islanders,
supporting the project through a bottle sponsorship is our way of helping to spread this message to older members of our community.”
The utility confirmed that along with the bottles, information on additional support available with Guernsey Water would be included.
(Media release provided by Guernsey Water)