“I feel i have a home”: Noleen’s journey to support, safety and belonging at Myos House
At 86 years old, Noleen Milligan has lived a full life. Born in Doncaster, a proud Yorkshire lass through and through, Noleen’s story is one of strength and overcoming tough times, thanks to the care and support she received from us.
A life of giving and resilience
A British-born Jewish woman, she’s travelled to Israel three times with her sister, visiting places ‘so beautiful they’re hard to describe’. Her life has always been about giving, she once ran a day centre for older people, inspired by the love she had for her grandmother, whom she visited every Saturday without fail.
She’s also a lifelong dog lover, with fond memories of her beloved Trudy and many other canine companions. But life hasn’t always been kind. Noleen has endure difficulties. That’s why it meant so much when she felt safe and comfortable from the moment she arrived at Myos House.
Stepping in to support
Noleen’s journey to Myos House began when colleagues at The Arc (a community hub) noticed she was struggling. She would come in every few days to visit the Post Office, pay bills, withdraw money, and have a cup of tea – always the same order: mild with Carnation milk only, no sugar, and only half a cup.
But something wasn’t right. Noleen was forgetting things, trying to pay bills twice, and withdrawing money repeatedly. Jackie from the Post Office and The Arc team quickly stepped in. They discovered that Noleen needed help, she was not only struggling with memory but was being taken advantage of by neighbours.
From there, Ongo’s Tenancy Services and Maintenance team got involved. They made referrals to Social Services, and the Police were contacted about the financial abuse. It became clear that Noleen needed a safe, supportive environment, somewhere she could truly feel at home.
A new chapter at Myos House
That place was Myos House, Ongo’s specialist dementia care scheme. Moving in marked a turning point in Noleen’s life.
“Getting here is the best thing that has happened to me” she says. “Yes, I feel safe now, but it’s more than that, I feel I have a home.”
From day one, Noleen felt welcomed. She quickly bonded with another resident, and the two have become close friends who look out for each other. “We understand each other,” Noleen says with a smile.
She loves spending time in the lounge, chatting with others, and being part of a community. “The people are my favourite thing. There’s always someone to talk to. You can get as involved as you want.”
A place that understands
Noleen’s health has had its ups and downs, she’s undergone three open-heart surgeries and once collapsed in the street. But at Myos House, she’s surrounded by staff who care deeply and facilities that cater to every need, whether someone requires a lot of support or just a little.
“I love this flat,” she says. “It’s got everything I need, and the view is gorgeous. I can see the dogs playing on the field which I just love.”
She adds with a chuckle, “I’m very nosey, so I like to know what’s going on. But the staff are great. They look after me and help the others too”.
A message of hope
Noleen’s story is a powerful reminder of the difference that compassion, community, and the right support can make. From vulnerability and isolation to safety and belonging, her journey shows that it’s never too late to find a place where you’re truly at home.
As Noleen puts it: “Old age isn’t all bad, not when you’ve got people around you who care”.
It’s a powerful reminder of how important it is for communities to look out for one another. It shows the impact of simply noticing when someone is struggling, asking questions, and getting the right help involved.
When we act with empathy and awareness, we can help and protect each other.
If you’d like to learn more about Myos House and how it supports people like Noleen, visit: www.ongo.co.uk/myos.