Episode 6

Natalie is really looking forward to this week. Care for older people is close to her heart, shaped by looking after her dad, Charlie, and by years of working alongside older colleagues, including some of EastEnders’ most familiar faces.

In college, the focus is on what everyday care looks like as people get older. The students get hands-on with different aspects of support and try out glasses that simulate conditions like glaucoma, along with weighted suits that affect movement and balance. It’s all about empathy, and it brings Natalie back to thinking about her dad.

We also meet a group of men at a Men’s Shed in Newtownabbey. It’s a place to get together, work on projects and have company during the week. For many of them, as widowers, it provides companionship and a life away from loneliness.

Natalie’s placement at Galanos House, a Royal British Legion care home, focuses on staying active and involved. Residents are supported to keep doing the things they enjoy. Natalie spends time with Alan, a retired baker who runs bread-making sessions for his friends, and he invites her to roll up her sleeves.

Later, she grabs a catch-up with her older brother Tony, and they reflect on their dad’s care, wondering what ageing will look like for them.