A grandmother-of-five has paid tribute to an NHS team for improving her quality of life.

Gwen Newbury, 76, suffered a series of falls which affected her confidence and independence.

She was referred to the Swale Intermediate Care Team, run by Kent Community Health NHS Trust.

Gwen, who lives with her husband Fred, said: “After falling over so many times last year I just didn’t feel safe walking around anymore.

“Not just outdoors, but in my own home as well.

“My falls affected everything, including my confidence and I soon began to lose my independence too.

“I had to rely on Fred to help me with basic day-to-day activities.”

Physiotherapist Narinder Sharma and psychosocial occupational therapist Jo Norrington visited the couple at home.

After carrying out assessments they provided a walking frame and kitchen trolley to make her domestic life easier.

Gwen said: “I really felt cared for and in good hands.

“Narinder also prescribed an exercise programme which has really improved my confidence and stability.”

Narinder, who is based at Sheppey Community Hospital, said: “Gwen has made fantastic progress.

“She is now able to move about much more safely and confidently at home and her exercise programme continues to increase her muscle strength.”

Fred, 77, Gwen’s devoted husband of 56 years, has also felt the benefit of his wife’s improved quality of life. He said: “It’s great to see the difference in her.

“Until the team’s intervention Gwen had been really struggling and I could see it was getting her down.

“I didn’t want to leave her at home, so we were both spending long days indoors feeling quite helpless.”

The pair, from Danes Mead, Sittingbourne, were so thrilled with the care they received they are now members of Kent Community Health NHS Trust.

Foundation Trust membership gives local people more of a say on how community healthcare services are run.