My 85-year-old father who has vascular dementia was admitted after presenting at A&E and experienced an episode of hyperactive delirium (extreme agitation, aggression, etc) which is out of character. The following morning I had asked if there was any support for my dad as the things that often keep him content in his home weren't easily available to him at that time and could be exacerbating his distress. Things like music, and watching DVDs are simple things that my dad is still able to enjoy and as he is quite nonverbal is it hard for him to ask for them, let alone being unwell and in a strange environment.

Lauren organised a colleague to sit with dad and via a laptop play some of dad's favourite music. We completed the 'This is Me' form which gave the team further insight about Dad so they had a greater insight about my dad and as a result could provide personalised care for him. When I arrived the day after a traumatic visit the night before, seeing my dad calm, and tapping his feet to music was really emotional.

I was really anxious about how the visit would go in view of the previous night and concerned about how the change in environment as well as being poorly would be affecting him. It was such a relief to see him experiencing some pleasure. Lauren even made time to speak with me privately to go through the This is Me information and to give me emotional support as she realised how the stress of seeing my dad so unwell had affected me.

Even when my dad was moved to another ward the following day, she made sure that staff on the new ward were appraised of my dad's needs and they in turn created a couple of prompt sheets that were laminated above his bed with key information about him. I also spoke to Lauren a few days later despite my dad having moved to another ward to check how he was doing. Knowing that someone had taken the time to appreciate who my dad is and what he needs, especially in view of his dementia took a massive weight off my shoulders as I knew that Lauren was looking out for him. I know how busy staff are and how challenging it can be to ensure that colleagues understand someone's specific needs in a short space of time so it really has stayed with me and I hope there are more Laurens within the hospital as it is so so important and a vital aspect of supporting someone to be well again. Thank you!