Our team at
Ancasta Grove

I was a lifestyle lead previously, but when I saw this role, I thought it was an excellent opportunity to combine my strengths in events, leadership and relationship building.

I wanted to create something truly meaningful, so it has been a huge highlight for me to be able to turn Ancasta Grove into a real community hub. Through our community partnerships, projects, events and outings we have created an environment where residents feel connected to the wider world. I’m really proud of what we have achieved and that people feel valued, visible and involved.

In this role, you need to be able to build good relationships and being an excellent communicator is fundamental to that, as is being a good networker. Compassion is also crucial, as well as being resilient. Fundamentally, it is all about having genuine passion for people and staying positive.

Outside of work, I enjoy paddleboarding, playing chess and being with my family.

I trained as a nurse in India which has given me a strong foundation, as well as the skills and knowledge to work in a range of healthcare settings. I also previously worked at Southampton General Hospital.

I chose to join Care UK because of their commitment to high-quality, compassionate care that is tailored to each resident. Becoming part of the team here was a chance to make a meaningful impact. Care UK also places strong emphasis on professional growth and teamwork which appealed to me.

In any caring profession, you have to be compassionate, have empathy and patience. Situations can change rapidly so it is also important to have critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

As a nurse it is always good when I have the chance to connect with residents on a personal level, rather than just managing clinical duties. I feel proud of this role and being able to make a tangible difference in people’s lives. Last year I was a finalist in the Care UK awards which made it even more rewarding.

When I am off work, I love to spend my time with family and friends. I also enjoy watching movies and following sports.

I was previously a carer and have a level three diploma in care. I have also completed dementia care coach training. I decided to join Care UK because I wanted to be part of Ancasta Grove when it opened and help build its reputation.

I love that every day is different and brings new challenges. I also see each day as another opportunity to make residents smile. In my role it is important to be caring, open and honest and have a willingness to learn. My dementia training also means I teach colleagues how it affects people and how to engage with residents living with dementia.

When I am not working, I enjoy crafts and spending time with my family, including looking after my five nieces.

I had a varied career before joining Care UK and have previously worked as a care assistant and as a physics teacher. I joined Care UK because it is a large organisation that values hard work and provides opportunities.

In this environment, you need to be caring and compassionate. The most important part of what we do is ensuring residents get the best quality care and enjoy a fulfilling life.

My favourite part of the day is first thing in the morning when you get to greet all the residents. Ancasta Grove is like family for me, and I feel lucky to be well supported by colleagues. I always strive to do my best and I enjoy keeping busy and active at work – there is always something to do.

Cricket is a big passion of mine and in my spare time, I am a fast bowler and power hitter. I also enjoy going to the gym and lifting weights.

Before joining Care UK, I worked in social care for over a decade and was a service manager for supported living. As well as my previous experience, I have completed dementia training.

To be an effective team leader, you need to be approachable and organised. You also need the ability to stay calm and not get flustered. A big part of my role is to make sure colleagues feel supported and confident in providing quality care.

It is always very rewarding when we get lovely feedback from residents and their families. It also brings a smile to my face when I see residents do something they thought was impossible – it is all part of helping people live fulfilling lives.

Outside of work I enjoy football and gardening.

After three years culinary school training to become a qualified chef, I worked at a four-star hotel in Southampton for ten year before taking the decision to try something new and join Care UK as Head Chef when the home opened in 2021.

I love cooking and I am so passionate about food. To run a smooth kitchen, you need to be well organised and have good people skills for communication. My favourite part of the day is the preparation before serving the food to people and seeing how much they enjoy it. It can be very busy but I love the rush. Ancasta Grove allows me to work with lovely fresh ingredients producing delicious meals for residents, and have a great-work life balance. 

I watched Ancasta Grove being built and after researching Care UK, I decided it was an organisation I wanted to work for.

As the first person people meet when they step through the front door, it is important to be professional, approachable and friendly. Having strong communication and organisational skills are also essential.

I feel really proud to represent Ancasta Grove on the front desk and I love being here and chatting to residents and their families.

Outside of work, I enjoy watching live music and going to festivals. I also like to travel and being with my son, daughter and granddaughter.

As a lifestyle co-ordinator you need to be friendly and compassionate. It is really important to be a clear communicator too. For me, it’s the small moments that I like the most – like being able to chat and laugh with residents and hearing about their lives.

Working in care, means it is vital to ensure every resident is treated with dignity and respect. I once helped a resident to build their confidence so they could join in all our activities. Before that, they had been quite isolated and stayed in their room a lot. Being able to help someone in such a practical but meaningful way is incredibly rewarding and it makes me feel proud of what we do here.

When I am not working, I love to draw and read.