Wednesday 11 March 2026
“I no longer second guess myself, I feel like me again, and I’m incredibly grateful for that,” says Pauline Kirtley (pictured right).
Pauline accessed physiotherapy support to improve her mental health.
Helping people to access physiotherapy
Jodie Elders and Chloe Morton provide physiotherapy to people like Pauline. They go to people’s homes across County Durham offering flexible support for older adults based on what each person needs.
Their work is for people whose mental health makes it challenging to access mainstream physiotherapy. It means people can access one-to-one sessions in a comfortable, familiar environment.
This physiotherapy support is made possible through a partnership between our trust and Age UK County Durham.
Above: Jodie Elders and Chloe Morton
Building confidence and preserving independence
Jodie, physiotherapist says: “Our work is about giving people the tools and support to build confidence, preserve independence, and stay engaged in the activities that matter most to them.”
Chloe Morton, physiotherapy assistant, adds: “We want people to feel empowered to stay active and improve their quality of life as they age.”
Boosting mental health and wellbeing
Pauline says that before the support: “I would stay in the house a lot as it was easier than going out, I was hiding myself.
After working with Chloe, I feel my confidence is through the roof and I don’t feel like anything can stop me.
“I used to feel so tired mentally and physically. When I went to sleep, I wasn’t bothered if I woke up. But now I am really enjoying life and spending time with my family and husband.
“Our sessions are very open and honest, and I feel comfortable talking to Chloe as if she is a friend coming to see me rather than a professional.”
Reducing anxiety around falling
Another client, who wishes to remain unnamed, said: “I was introduced to the service by the information and advice team from Age UK County Durham.
“They told me there was a physiotherapy service that could come to my house and help with my mobility.
I like that they come to my house and think that more services should do this.
“Since the girls have started coming, I have had a completely different experience.
“They have been extremely helpful and exceptionally good.
“They are both very kind and all the advice and work they have done has improved my mobility and balance.
“They give very good advice as well as homework but there is no pressure and you can work at your own pace, as some days are better than others.
“Jodie and Chloe first came to help my anxiety around falling, I now feel more confident when mobilising.”
Providing physiotherapy support for older people in County Durham
Alongside providing one-to-one physiotherapy, Jodie and Chloe run “Your Body, Your Chapter”. These community workshops promote healthy aging by educating participants on the benefits of exercise, goal setting and habit building. They also include practical introductions to exercise.
This community-based service is part of the Community Mental Health Transformation programme. The programme brings health, social care and voluntary sector services together to improve support in local communities.
