PEOPLE across Tameside can now access a new source of support to help them live safely, confidently and independently at home, thanks to the arrival of Extra Help Tameside and Glossop.
As part of a well-established national network, the group has provided practical, reliable support to those who need a helping hand for more than 15 years.
Although new to the borough, it already has a proven track record across the UK, with 33 branches operating successfully nationwide.
“Extra Help has been supporting communities for more than 15 years,” explained Wayne Heap, who runs the Tameside and Glossop service with Karen Heap.
“It’s a trusted, award winning brand with branches across the UK, and we’re proud to bring that level of quality and reliability to our local area.
“Our focus is on providing consistent, dependable support from a team that genuinely cares about this community.”
Fully insured and built around compassion, trust and flexibility, Extra Help Tameside and Glossop offers not only practical support but also something just as important — companionship.
That might be sharing a brew and a chat, going for a walk or simply being there to listen. The team can also help with cleaning, household tasks, shopping, errands and meal preparation.
Karen, who brings almost a decade of experience in care, added: “It’s companionship, dog walking, gardening, ironing, meal prep, cleaning, changing beds, washing — whatever helps someone stay comfortable and independent at home.”
For Wayne, the mission is simple: “It’s about promoting more independent living.”
Wayne’s path into Extra Help came after nearly 20 years in business, adding: “I left a company I’d helped build from the ground up.
“Everything happens for a reason — this opportunity came at the perfect time. I’ve lived in Tameside all my life, and my family has been here forever. It’s time to give something back.”
Karen shares that same motivation, continuing: “I loved working in care, supporting people at the end of life and giving them dignity meant a lot to me.
“But I wanted to bring that passion back into the community — to help people stay in their own homes, avoid hospital admissions, and thrive with the right support.”
She also sees Extra Help as a way to reconnect older people with their community, stating: “We want to employ retired and semi‑retired people too. It gets them out of the house, talking, contributing and feeling valued again.”
Despite being in its early stages, Extra Help Tameside and Glossop is already building strong relationships.
“We’ve been reaching out to local health and community organisations to introduce Extra Help and share what we offer,” Wayne said. “The response so far has been really encouraging, and it’s clear there’s a strong appetite for services that help people stay independent at home.
“We’ve had good enquiries already. Carers Karen has worked with are waiting to come on board. Even in the first week, we had appointments to visit people.”
Before any support begins, Wayne and Karen visit each person at home to understand exactly what they need.
Karen explained: “We sit down, have a chat and really get to know them. That helps us match the right helper to the right client.
“If someone loves bingo but can’t get there alone, I’ll take them, bring them home, and make them a brew. I love bingo!”
Extra Help Tameside and Glossop also plans to introduce social get-togethers to help clients stay connected and active.
If you are interested in what it can offer, Extra Help Tameside and Glossop can be contacted by emailing tameside@extra-help.co.uk or calling 0161 410 4151.