Our team at
Darlington Court

The team supported me to complete my NVQ level 3, which led to me being promoted to Team Leader. Later I became Unit Manager on the residential unit. In the years that I’ve been here I have been encouraged to achieve things I never thought I’d do, and I’m incredibly grateful for that.

I think it’s important to be open to new ideas in this role and to think outside of the box. I enjoy getting to know each resident. I aim to see the person first and not their condition. I also enjoy getting the best out of my team. 

Meal times are my favourite time of the day when I can chat to the residents and learn more about them. I also enjoy the musical activities. One of the highlights of my time here has been becoming the home’s Dementia Champion and influencing how the team works for the better. We’re a supportive home and team and we look out for each other.

Although I’m an experienced activity co-ordinator and events planner – I used to work for a charity – I still enjoy the challenges my role brings, including needing to have a ‘plan b’ and to think on your feet if residents fancy doing something different to what’s planned.

I really enjoy spending one-to-one time with residents. They love reminiscing and that’s when you can really get to know them and the things they’ve done in their lives. We have some big projects to arrange and it’s rewarding to see these through and to look back and think “I did that”.

I believe that to be a successful activities coordinator you need to be a positive, honest and happy person and be able to put yourself in the shoes of the residents.

Working with a great team and all the wonderful residents at Darlington Court is my favourite part of the job.

In my spare time I enjoy socialising and spending time with my family. 

In my last role, I was a Sous Chef in a private school and for an office rosette restaurant. I also ran my own successful cake-baking business which was a fun challenge for me.

In the kitchen I like to say the most important thing to work by are the three p’s – preparation, presentation, and perseverance. It’s important to make sure everyone works together as part of a team and provides the best food for everyone in the home. 

I’m of the opinion that I’ve worked for the rest and now I’m at the best. There’s no other care home like Darlington Court.

It’s important to be flexible, organised, proactive and attention-focused in this job. It’s also key to have a sense of humour and to be a team player. I believe that we are all here to do a job but, ultimately, we are making sure residents are happy in their home. 

The best thing about each day is knowing that I have completed all the tasks that I have set myself as well as supporting residents and colleagues, making their life a little easier. I do enjoy making a difference to residents and bringing a smile to their faces. 

In my free time I enjoy watching football, cycling, relaxing with the family and trying to get into shape.