When Helen needed a new shower to meet the growing demands of her husband Royston’s progressive illness, she was in the process of getting quotes when she was urged to contact Ray Goodridge from Test Valley Kitchens & Bathrooms Ltd.

Helen takes up the story: “We needed a new walk-in shower for my husband, he has Alzheimer’s and vascular dementia, and we wanted a shower where he would be safe, and I could help him.

“Ray Goodridge from Test Valley Kitchens & Bathrooms Ltd was recommended by Fiona, she has been assisting me since my husband has been ill, with paperwork and finances and she knew him through BNI networking.

“I already had one or two quotes. And then I had a quote from Ray, which was all eyewatering, to be honest, however, there was something about Ray's personality and enthusiasm that made me choose him. He suggested various things that I hadn't thought of or ways of doing that made me believe that he was able to do it. 

“My husband is, unfortunately, inevitably deteriorating in his ability to look after himself. I needed to make sure that he has showered properly. Previously the shower tray was raised off the floor and Royston was tripping over the edge to get in and it was too small for me to help him.

“Ray produced designs to replace the shower and we’ve had an enormous shower tray fitted with a glass wall and a seat within the shower. There is no room for me to help him. We did have a problem with the first seat, which took up too much space, but he found and sourced another that was perfect.

“I would recommend Ray and indeed all the builders and tradesmen were very professional, and you know, they all worked very well and behaved themselves very well and did their work and didn't leave a mess behind when they finished. This was important as we were still living in the house while work went on.

“Ray also handled all the inevitable snagging himself, which was nice and when I found out that I would need to do the painting, I was able to pay extra to have that done. I’m too busy to do that!

“It did take more time than I had bargained for. But ultimately, the result is lovely. So, we're very pleased with it. Royston does sort of recognise there’s a difference. Although, and it is quite common with Alzheimer’s, they feel the cold and don’t like to get wet. He no longer likes swimming and isn’t keen on the shower. However, because it's much more convenient now because it's open at one end, I can get in without getting completely soaked myself and I can make sure that he's washed properly. It is lovely.”