Our team at
Ponteland Manor

I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing in 1998 in the Philippines. Before joining Care UK, I worked in multiple clinical settings, including universities, hospitals and, for 17 years, in care homes. I began working for Care UK in 2015 and have found there are a lot of opportunities and support for both colleagues and residents alike.

I’ve always believed that you should treat and speak to people the way you want to be treated and spoken to. If it doesn’t feel right, don’t do it. It’s important to be open to change and eager to learn and teach others, and to have a positive attitude. I always say, ‘I don’t know everything, but I will find the answer if there’s something I don’t know.’

Alongside my career, I’ve been a mentor to overseas students for 15 years. I was so proud when the university coordinator told me I was the best mentor during that time because of how my students progressed.

Each day I look forward to seeing the residents at Ponteland Manor. I love listening to their life stories and having a laugh together.

When I’m not at work, I love spending time with my husband and my three children. 

I’ve been a care worker, and I’ve worked for Care UK before. When I rejoined the organisation in 2019 as lifestyle coordinator, I knew I’d be joining a quality team that puts residents at the heart of their care. 

I love working in the lifestyle team: supporting residents to do enjoyable activities and seeing them enjoying life is a great feeling. I’m also part of a fantastic team at Ponteland Manor. 

I try hard to ensure we’re always offering a stimulating programme of group and one-to-one activities and social events. I’m always assessing whether what we’re doing is meeting people’s needs, and we adapt and enhance what we’re doing. 

I joined Care UK in late 2017 to give myself a new challenge. I hadn’t worked in the care sector before, but I was in the Army for 24 years and I finished my service as a Regimental Catering Warrant Officer. I once cooked for the Duke of Kent, which was a highlight.

I enjoy doing the ‘resident of the day’ meetings with residents. Everyone is resident of the day once a month, and it gives us a chance to ensure they’re happy with all aspects of their care. I hear their feedback about the food and ask them about other things they might like to have on the menu. It’s also nice to have a chat, and a laugh and a joke.

I like the relaxed atmosphere of Ponteland Manor, and how the team is focused on keeping everyone active, busy, happy and fed and watered. I’m looking forward to continuing to develop my team so that, together, we can provide the best support and food for the residents.