Our team at
Ponteland Manor

I’ve worked in care homes for many years, and I joined Care UK in 2015.

I’d worked for other care home providers before joining the team, but I found Care UK stood out because of the huge support it provides to residents and colleagues alike. As a colleague you’re given all the tools and opportunities you need to do your best work and fulfil your potential. 

There are so many highlights to my job. I enjoy the GP’s visits, as well as the opportunities to get together with the local multidisciplinary team. These enable us to learn from each other and share information to enhance residents’ health and wellbeing. 

I also enjoy sharing my knowledge and experience with people who are just starting out in their careers. I’ve mentored overseas students for many years and it’s wonderful to see them go on to great things. Supporting residents and listening to their stories is also something I love. It’s always fantastic to have a laugh with them as well as with my lovely colleagues. There’s a fantastic team here at Ponteland Manor. We work together extremely well.

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 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.