We are shining a spotlight on our Direct Payment service and the important work of all the Personal Assistants that provide care for residents in Islington. We recently spoke to Jemma, who supports John six days a week.

Direct Payments give residents the freedom to arrange their own care and support. This could mean hiring a Personal Assistant, like Jemma, or joining classes and activities. It’s about choice, flexibility, and living the life you want.

A friendship built on care

John has lived in Islington his whole life. “I remember as a kid watching Arsenal games with my brother on Christmas Day before coming home for a roast,” he recalls fondly.

Before losing his sight, John worked as an engineer for many years across London and later with Islington’s rubbish collections team. Now in his 80s, John lives on a quiet Islington street where neighbours all know and support each other.

Jemma first met John while working in home care, visiting once a week. Over time, they built a strong bond. “I first started visiting John just as a cover while I worked in home care. We built a good relationship over the years and when I left the job I wanted to make sure I could continue supporting him, so we looked at other options,” says Jemma.

Six years ago, they discovered Direct Payments.

“Neither of us had heard about Direct Payments,” Jemma explains. “After speaking to the team, we realised it would give John a lot more flexibility over the support he needed.”

Life with Direct Payments

Now, Jemma supports John six days a week. From doctor’s appointments and shopping trips to preparing meals and keeping the house tidy, Jemma helps John live life on his terms. “I’m happier with my care this way,” says John. “I get to choose when I need support and for what. I now have more days when Jemma is around, which has been really great for me.”

John sums it up perfectly: “If it wasn’t for Jemma’s support, I wouldn’t have the life I have now.”

This year, John nominated Jemma for Personal Assistant of the Year at Islington Council’s Dignity in Care Awards.

Reflecting on the evening, Jemma says: “We made a date of it, and it felt nice to be recognised by the council for the job I’m doing. To get positive feedback on my role on a wider scale was very special.”

Want to make a difference?

If Jemma and John’s story has inspired you, why not become a Direct Payments Personal Assistant? You’ll help someone live independently and maybe even change a life.

Find out more by contacting our friendly team at on directpayments@islington.gov.uk