I hope you don't mind a guy asking this question - I'm not sure where else I could ask to get a thoughtful answer :-)
I'm just recovering from quite a long bout of mental illness. I have a good doctor and a great partner and am now on the right balance of meds. Life's looking up and I'm back at work part time, functioning pretty well.
During my illness, my partner worked full time and extra hours to support the budget as well as caring for me when she got home. It's been so hard on her. The house is horrible. It's cluttered and very dirty and grimy. I struggled while I was unwell, and so did she. Now I'm back at work, I'd love to get someone to clean it for us, as a big surprise for her. Obviously after I've tidied and thrown out all the clutter.
My worry is, I don't want someone to judge or shame me. I had my car detailed and yeah, it was messy too. They did a great job but they posted pictures of my messy car on their business facebook page with some yukky comments and I felt horrible.
I'm happy to pay a good price, after all it's gonna be a shit of a job. Pretty much a bond clean. Can anybody suggest a company on the outer north of Brisbane who would help with this with some sensitivity? The last thing I need is to feel awful again about my inadequacy.
3 Replies
This is what I'd do as the carer of someone with high support needs. And yeah I've been where you have, so totally get it.
I'd contact one of the 'home support' places. They understand the circumstances and have people who can help with the decluttwring and or cleaning process. They are not 'cleaners' as such but do a range of support roles and the agency you contact understand that your privacy and dignity is imperative just like your GP.
We've used a range of these services over the years from cleaning, organising, cooking, pet care and gardening.
They are probably a little more pricey than a typical cleaner but they will treat you with respect and have firm rules around your privacy.
Dial an angel is one service I've used but there are many others if you Google in home care that will get you an agency in your area.
If (and I hope it never happens) you have a relapse many local councils offer cleaning services for a tiny fee (sometimes free). They also do gardening and pet care.
Oh god, don't feel inadequate.
It sounds like a great idea and I am sure your partner would be absolutely thrilled with the surprise.
Do it! Maybe just mention no photos or anything to be taken.
TBH, they should have asked to post about your car too
No recs but jeez cleaners should be respectful of your privacy I think the car detailers were really unprofessional, I dont think you will get the same again and if youre concerned make it clear absolutely no photos of your house.
You could make your partner dinner or get takeaway to say thanks for all the support and getting you through and heres to a new chapter for you both. Sounds like a lovely idea