Our team at
Kentford Manor

For my role, successful time and people management is essential – but I always make time to have some fun with the residents too, and you always have to lead by example. There’s no job that I wouldn’t, or haven’t, done in the home when needed. Working at Kentford Manor is my biggest career highlight to date, we have a real sense of family. 

I’d also worked in health and social care roles for 15 years before that. I used to supply agency/bank staff to Care UK homes in East Anglia, so I knew the company’s reputation. I knew Kentford Manor was a fantastic home, so when I was looking for a new challenge, I was keen to join the team on an in-house basis.

In this role it’s vital that you have a compassionate approach: moving a loved one into a care home – even if it’s a great one like ours. I ensure I give everyone the information and support they need to make the right decision for them.

I get a huge boost from seeing a new resident settling in and feeling at home, especially if they initially had their reservations about moving in. The feeling that a family trusts you with their loved one’s care is a very rewarding part of my role.

I’m looking forward to getting to know all the residents and their families, and earning their trust, as well as the trust and respect of my colleagues at Kentford Manor. We look forward to welcoming you to our Newmarket care home very soon.

Prior to this I have taught in primary and secondary schools in various subjects including dance, drama and english. During my studies at university I frequently volunteered at care homes teaching exercise and craft clubs, and I found this so rewarding being able to bring joy and entertainment into the residents' lives. My role is to organise events and activities throughout the year for residents and their loved ones to attend to ensure they have a fulfilled experience during their time with us. I believe bringing a smile to someone's face is the most important part of any day!

However, in 2007 I reached a crossroad in my life where I felt it was time to make a difference - I wanted a career that was meaningful. So in 2007 I started as an Activities Coordinator in a care home. Over the next few years I transitioned into administration and dementia care. I joined the home in 2017 as the Home Administrator. I am proud to work for one of the best care homes in the Suffolk. The most rewarding part of my day to day job is interacting with the residents and their families, a simple 'thank you' really goes a long way!

I then came to a time in my life when I wanted a change, so I decided to head into housekeeping in a care home. This was a big, but positive, change for me and I have been in housekeeping ever since. I love how every day is different working at the home, and I really feel like I make a difference to the residents who we support.