A Southport woman is helping to empower vulnerable people in society by providing vital support to those of State Pension age through Grey Matters Consultancy.

Carolyn Gorman offers a professional, personalised document and form preparation service from her base in Southport, covering the local area and beyond. Her work focuses on helping older people and their families at a critical stage in life, ensuring they receive the benefits and support they are entitled to.

Grey Matters Consultancy supports people of retirement age who may need additional assistance, as well as offering guidance to those who care for them.

Carolyn said:- “This is a service that is much needed. I support my clients to navigate things like applying for Attendance Allowance, Council Tax reductions, Blue Badges and Carers Allowance. Many older people may be unaware of Attendance Allowance, that they may be entitled to claim and even if they are aware they often struggle to navigate the complicated application process.  You have to complete the forms in a certain way to be successful. That’s something that some people are proficient at, while others may need some help. It is a sad fact that some older people are getting turned down for Attendance Allowance not because they are not entitled to claim it, but because the forms they submit just aren’t quite right. I’m an expert in completing Attendance Allowance applications and have a 98% success rate with the clients I’ve worked with, something I’m very proud of. I work on the basis that if an Attendance Allowance application isn’t successful, then I will 1st appeal that decision and if the claim is still unsuccessful, I would refund any fee paid.”

Carolyn offers a compassionate, hands-on approach and often visits clients in their homes.

Carolyn continued:- “Sometimes you sit with people and ask how they are, and they say, ‘I’m fine’, even when they’re not. Sitting and having a conversation and a cup of tea allows people to open up about what’s really going on with their health. It also allows me to see how they are managing in their home and any challenges they are facing. Often it’s a small step that can make a really big difference to someone’s life, whether that’s securing Attendance Allowance, or perhaps applying for a Blue Badge for parking.”

Carolyn joined Grey Matters Consultancy 2 years ago and says it has been incredibly rewarding.

She said:- “I absolutely love it! I enjoy helping and spending time with my clients, and I love being able to make a positive difference to their lives. I’ve lived in Southport all my life and am well known locally. I worked for 24 years for Southport Tourism Department at Sefton Council, and then as the Fundraising Manager at Queenscourt Hospice. I’m invested in this area and helping the people who live here.”

While based in Southport, Carolyn also supports clients in areas like Liverpool and Preston, and even further afield in places such as Telford and Southampton, thanks to online and phone consultations.

Carolyn added:- “Southport alone has 1 of the highest proportions of people aged 65 and over in the UK. There are many who just need someone they can talk to, ask some questions, and get help taking the next step.”

Grey Matters Consultancy offers a range of services aimed at helping those over the State Pension age to get the best out of life. Services include:-

• Attendance Allowance - A benefit to help you stay independent for as long as possible. You may be eligible even if you haven’t had a diagnosis or carer.
• Power of Attorney - Planning for the unexpected. A Lasting Power of Attorney ensures your wishes are followed if you’re unable to make decisions yourself.
• Blue Badge - Assistance with parking for those with mobility issues, helping people stay active and connected.

Carolyn added:- “I can help people with Attendance Allowance; I can find out if they are eligible for a Council Tax reduction due to their health; I can help clients to secure a Blue Badge and more. These things can really make a real difference to people’s lives, and it’s such a shame when the only thing stopping them is the complexity of the application process. I’m here to simplify things and make life easier.”

For more details visit this website. You can also call:-  07946 304426 or email Carolyn Gorman at:- carolyn.gorman@grey-matters-consultancy.com