KIRKLEES home carers became the subject of controversy following the introduction of a new pay scheme for council workers this year.

The establishment of “single status” aimed to even out salaries for men and women councils workers.

But several Examiner readers wrote to complain that people employed in traditionally female roles, such as cleaning and home care, should not be considered on a par with binmen and gardeners.

David Himelfield went to find out just how highly valued home care assistants are by their clients.

“Without her I’d be back in hospital. With her help I can do a lot,” says Peter Wood.

Peter, 78, left hospital in April after an operation which will enable him to walk by July.

In the meantime home carer Lorraine Nevison helps him with his day-to-day tasks which many people take for granted.

As part of the hospital supported discharge team Lorraine and her co-carer, Mandy Jenkins, make Peter’s breakfast, help him wash and even feed his cat, Tigger.

It’s their job to make sure people like Peter are rehabilitated and independent after surgery.

Peter, a retired Kirklees Council engineer, suffered an ankle fusion, which for three years has gradually stopped him moving his right foot.

Father-of-three Peter’s busy schedule of stewarding at the Galpharm and chairing the Marsden Operatic Society came progressively to an end.

Peter, from Linthwaite, said: “I had to give up everything. The biggest thing you’re up against is boredom. I can’t go up the street. I can’t even go to my pond to feed the fish.

“But it’s wonderful the encouragement I get from Lorraine and Mandy. They get you on your feet. It definitely improves my quality of life.”

Lorraine, who has worked for the scheme since it began seven years ago, explained: “Our job is to make Peter able to do as much as possible. I make sure Peter is safe in everything he does.

Safety is our upmost concern. It’s simple things that make his life better.”

After Peter’s home is prepared for the day Lorraine will visit other patients whose surgery has left them at home and unable to perform basic tasks.

Lorraine, 59, from Netherton, said: “There’s a misconception that it’s just for older people. But we get people of all ages who’ve had anything from heart attacks to motorcycle accidents.

“I love what I do, especially the rehabilitation side; making people independent gives you such job satisfaction.’’