[Image: Sara Smart from Age UK East Grinstead with Jenny Coombes and Zoe Harris from My Future Care ]

 

We’re delighted to share an update from Jenny Coombes, who joined the My Future Care project as West Sussex Local Ambassador early in 2025.

With over 30 years of experience as a registered general nurse, Jenny brings deep insight into the importance of ensuring people’s care preferences are known and respected. Now based in West Sussex, she’s helping to grow awareness and support for future care planning across the county — connecting with local organisations, delivering training, and championing community-led initiatives.

We caught up with Jenny to hear more about her work so far, what’s inspired her, and the opportunities and challenges she’s seeing on the ground.

What’s surprised you in your early conversations as a Local Ambassador?

Taking on the role of Local Ambassador, I’ll admit I felt a little nervous at first. I’ve always believed in the positive difference that future care planning can make, but I wasn’t sure how much interest there would be from organisations.

What’s surprised – and really encouraged – me the most is how open and enthusiastic organisations across West Sussex have been. Many were already supporting this work, and every new conversation I’ve had has been met with warmth, curiosity, and a shared commitment to helping people plan for their future care needs.

What kinds of organisations are showing interest, and what’s driving that interest?

There’s a growing and wonderfully diverse range of organisations and individuals getting involved in future care planning. Even before I stepped into this role, there was already a strong foundation — local community groups, carers, dementia support workers, and end-of-life doulas were promoting the handbook and acting as buddies.

Since then, we’ve expanded that reach further. Organisations like Age UK East Grinstead and District, social prescribers, and the Men’s Shed have attended training to become buddies. We’re also in exciting conversations with Luna Arts, who are delivering an end-of-life project, and we’re engaging with local faith groups and hospices.

Even when organisations aren’t able to take on a buddy role, many still support the work by sharing the Future Care Handbook through their networks. A common thread I hear is a personal connection — many have experienced the stress when planning hasn’t happened, or the peace of mind it brings when it has. That lived experience is a powerful motivator.

What challenges are organisations facing — and how can they overcome them?

Like many sectors, organisations are under significant pressure — with limited funding, stretched staffing, and tight schedules. Even where there’s real enthusiasm, finding time and capacity can be a big hurdle.

Another challenge is simply not knowing where to start — what future care planning involves, or how they can be part of it.

My message is simple: please come and talk to us.

We fully understand the pressures, and we’re always exploring ways to make it easier to support this vital work. Even just promoting the handbook can make a big difference.

We’re seeing some really inspiring collaborations. In Henfield, for instance, volunteers from a community group are connecting with the local Primary Care Network to explore mutual support. We’re also looking into linking up with a Living Well Programme in West Sussex — possibly with telephone buddies offering support to people attending their groups.

It’s all about creativity, partnership, and making small steps together.

What advice would you give to organisations who want to support people to plan ahead but don’t know where to begin?

Firstly, I’d encourage them to reach out to My Care Matters. We offer free awareness and training sessions on our Future Care Planning Handbook. The handbook is a really practical tool, helping people understand future care planning with clear, simple steps to start those important conversations.

Secondly, if your organisation – or one you know – supports older adults, please do get in touch. While future care planning is important for everyone, many older adults haven’t heard of it, or don’t realise how valuable it can be. The evidence is clear: people who plan ahead are more likely to receive the care they want, and their families face less stress if needs change suddenly.

We’re here to help. It really doesn’t have to be complicated.

What gives you hope that these conversations can have a real impact?

I’ve seen first-hand the positive impact they can have. As a frailty nurse, I’ve spoken at Ageing Well programmes, sharing information with older adults.

What’s really moving is how quickly the message resonates. I’ve seen people who’ve had difficult experiences — where loved ones didn’t have a plan — become passionate advocates, eager to help others understand the value of thinking ahead. Even those new to the topic often become enthusiastic supporters.

And I regularly receive messages that remind me how meaningful this work can be. One that stayed with me came from a Men’s Shed group. After just one day of training, they shared how the session sparked heartfelt, honest conversations — and inspired them to explore ways to spread this knowledge further.

That gives me great hope. When people see how planning ahead can reduce worry, give people choice, and bring peace of mind, it really clicks. And when organisations join that journey, they become part of creating lasting, positive change in their communities.

Thank you, Jenny. We’re proud of the work you are doing and the impactful relationships you are supporting.  

If you’re in West Sussex and would like to explore how My Future Care can support your work, Jenny would love to hear from you. And if you’re based elsewhere, don’t worry – our team is here to help wherever you are. Get in touch with us here to learn more about the My Future Care Handbook, free training, and how we can support your organisation.