Our team at
Rossendale House

Before becoming unit manager, I was a senior carer. I have completed my Care Certificate and am now looking to achieve my level 3 NVQ and continue to develop my skills and knowledge. 

I chose to work for Care UK because I am passionate about helping people and I wanted to make a positive difference in people’s lives. I also admire Care UK’s strong values and high standards of care and commitment to supporting both residents and colleagues. Progressing to unit manager has taken a lot of hard work and dedication, but I look at how far I’ve come and the knowledge I’ve gained, and it is such a privilege to be here. 

As unit manager you need to have strong leadership and communication skills to support colleagues and residents effectively. You also need to be caring, organised, reliable, and able to stay calm under pressure. I also believe a good unit manager should lead by example and work well as part of a team, ensuring high standards of care, dignity and respect are maintained.

I feel proud of what we do here and being able to provide comfort, support, and happiness to residents and their families is incredibly rewarding. It makes my day, knowing that we create a safe and caring environment where residents feel valued and respected. I also enjoy leading the team, solving problems, and seeing the positive difference good teamwork and high-quality can make to residents daily lives. 

My interests outside of work include spending quality time with my family and making memories with them. I enjoy relaxing, socialising, and maintaining a good work-life balance.

Previously, I was a unit manager and will soon be starting the deputy manager programme. I chose to join Care UK because I wanted to be part of an organisation that shared my values. Care UK also genuinely champions career progression and focuses on creating a positive and supportive environment where residents and colleagues are cared for and respected. 

To be a good care manager, you need to be fair, approachable and organised. You also need to be able to prioritise. As every day involves supporting residents, families and colleagues, good communication is essential too. 

I take pride in always doing what’s best for the home, residents and colleagues. I was once able to bring together a group of carers who had become demoralised and supported them over time, watching them grow into an empathetic and efficient team – most of them are now close friends which is wonderful. I am also proud that colleagues see me as approachable and supportive, as I strive to create a positive environment which ultimately benefits everyone. 

For me, the best part of any day is the time I spend with residents. It doesn’t matter how busy the day is, speaking with a resident and getting a smile still gives me a real sense of satisfaction and reminds me of why I do this job. 

When I am not at work, I enjoy writing and photography. I find both really relaxing and they give me a chance to be creative.

I have worked in catering for 24 years and have a level 4 NVQ in food safety and hygiene. I chose to join the team here at Rossendale House because it’s local to me and Care UK is also committed to supporting colleagues.

The most important part of our role is ensuring we provide a balanced, varied and nutritious menu. We also need to make sure we cater for every individual, and take into account their likes and dislikes. To do this job well, you need to be highly motivated, dedicated and reliable. It is also essential to be a team player and react positively to challenges. 

The best part of the day for me is when we serve dinner and listening to what residents are saying about the food. I was also recently awarded employee of the month so that was a good day too. 

When I am not at work, I enjoy building Lego sets and playing Call of Duty (really badly!). I’m also a big Manchester United fan. 

I have worked as an administrator for about six years and am currently studying for my NVQ in business administration. I have also completed several other courses including safeguarding, fire and safety, moving and handling, medication training, and safer recruitment. 

I chose to join Care UK because the organisation’s values matched my own and reflect the standards I strive to uphold every day – caring, passionate and teamwork. I was also drawn to Care UK’s commitment to supporting colleague development and career progression. 

As reception and administrative teams are often the first point of contact, it is important to be friendly, patient and approachable. You also need to be compassionate and understanding. In terms of day-to-day operations, organisation, professionalism and strong communication skills are all essential. 

For me, I take real pride in knowing that the work I do helps everything run smoothly for both residents and the wider team. Accurate administration and communication help ensure residents, their families and colleagues are all supported. It is a privilege to be a trusted member of the team and helping create a positive environment for everyone that comes through the doors of Rossendale House. 

The best part of the day is knowing that I’ve been able to make a positive difference. I enjoy spending time talking to residents and listening to their stories. I love that every day is different and brings new experiences and challenges. 

Outside of work, I spend my time with my fiancé and family and enjoy going on adventures and long walks with my dog. I also love a spot of DIY and home improvement projects, so I am always coming up with new ideas and like to put my own touches to our house. 

My previous role was as a senior care assistant here before Rossendale House became part of Care UK. I have built strong relationships with residents, their families and with colleagues and I am excited to contribute to the smooth running of the home in my new position. 

I have completed several training courses, including safeguarding, health and safety, infection control, dementia awareness, first aid, food hygiene, and fire safety. My experience as a senior carer also gave me a strong understanding of procedures, and the importance of maintaining a safe, professional, and welcoming environment.

A receptionist is often the first point of contact for residents, families, visitors, and healthcare professionals, so strong communication and customer service skills are crucial. Patience, empathy, and the ability to remain calm under pressure are also essential, especially when dealing with sensitive situations. Being reliable and attentive and working well as part of a team are also important. 

My favourite part of the role is building positive relationships with residents, families, and colleagues, while helping to create a warm and friendly environment. I enjoy speaking with people, helping where I can, and being part of a supportive team. I also like the variety of the role as every day is different. 

Outside of work, I enjoy finding new places to go for walks or runs, spending time with my friends, and relaxing with my cat. I enjoy socialising and keeping a good work-life balance, and I like activities that help me stay positive and active.

Before becoming head housekeeper here, I was a kitchen assistant in a school, and before that I ran my own successful business for 24 years. I have also completed several training courses including COSHH (control of substances hazardous to health), health and safety, manual handling and fire safety. 

My previous experience has given me lots of transferrable skills and abilities. For example, you need to be organised and have good attention to detail. As head housekeeper, you also need to be able to support and lead a team, be a good communicator and be calm and professional at all times. 

I enjoy mornings where I can check in with the team and give support where it’s needed – starting on the right foot sets the tone for the rest of the day. I also enjoy the time I can spend interacting and chatting with residents and it is important to me that they feel safe, comfortable and respected in what is their home. 

In my spare time, I love to go camping and spending time with my beautiful family and grandchildren. I also enjoy going on holiday with my husband.