Our team at
Heath Lodge

I have an NVQ level five in leadership and management and am so happy to be part of the amazing team we have here at Heath Lodge.

I always feel proud of what we do when I see residents enjoying themselves. It is always a highlight for me to be able to spend time chatting with residents and finding out more about them. 

Moving into a care home can be an emotional and difficult time for individuals and their families. It is part of my role to make that transition as easy and stress-free as possible. To do that well, you need to be understanding and have empathy. You also need to be a good communicator and be honest with people. 

In my spare time I enjoy walking my dog and being with my family. 

Before joining the team at Heath Lodge, I was self-employed, but I can honestly say that coming here has been the most rewarding career choice in my 40 years of working. 

In this role, you need to have compassion, patience and kindness. You also need empathy and be able to see people’s individual needs. Being able to tailor your approach to activities means more people are likely to get involved and enjoy what we plan.

It is incredibly rewarding to see residents’ faces light up – it makes my day. I feel proud of how we help people live fulfilling lives and that families trust us to provide the best for their loved ones. 

When I’m not working, I enjoy meeting friends, going on holiday and being with my family and our dog. 

Before joining the team at Heath Lodge, I was a team leader for an NHS out of hours service for seven years. I have also had extensive training in customer service and in care home administration. Currently, I am studying for my level three NVQ in business administration.

Building trusting relationships with residents and their families is one of the most important parts of my role. With that in mind, you need to be a good communicator, friendly, compassionate and approachable. Taking on a leadership role has been a real highlight for me. It has helped develop my confidence and allowed me to support others too.

For me, one of the best parts of the day is when I get the chance to meet with residents and their families. I also enjoy finding new and creative ways to make a positive difference and making Heath Lodge even more welcoming than it already is.

Outside of work, I like crafts, cooking and spending time with my family and friends. I also like to explore new places.

Keeping Heath Lodge clean and tidy is the most important part of my role as head housekeeper. We are lucky that we have a terrific team here and we work well together.

Doing what we do is well worth it to see the smiles on residents faces. It is important that everyone who lives and works here feels comfortable and having a neat and organised home helps to do that. 

In this role, you definitely need to be a good team player. You also need to be motivated – it can be hard work but knowing residents are happy makes it all worthwhile. 

Outside of work, I am a busy mum and spend all my time with my family.