New management team appointed to take the helm of Smyth Lodge

Home news

Oct 23, 2018

Smyth Lodge has announced the appointment of its home manager and customer relations manager.

Lorraine Eastmead has been appointed as home manager and Mark Luxford as customer relations manager. 

Lorraine Eastmead will lead the team at the new care home when it opens in early spring 2019, having previously managed five care homes throughout her career.

Lorraine spent fifteen years as a registered nurse and trained district nurse, working in the Bexley and Sidcup community. She then trained as a respiratory nurse, supporting the NHS in delivering care to patients. Since 2013, she has worked in the care home sector. Her new position will see her take responsibility for the day-to-day running of Smyth Lodge, which will accommodate up to 80 residents.
During her career, Lorraine has focused her approach to management on empathy and her desire to ensure residents are living independently and with purpose.

Commenting on her new position, Lorraine said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed as the home manager at Smyth Lodge. Having previously managed a home that was rated ‘Outstanding’ by the CQC, and retained this success, I knew that working at Care UK would be the perfect fit for me as they share my values of ensuring residents continue to live independent and fulfilling lives.

“Having the opportunity to start at a brand new care home, and create a welcoming, home-from-home environment for the residents, their families, and our team, is something I’m really looking forward to. I’m excited to start my new journey with Care UK.”

Lorraine will have the support of Mark Luxford, customer relations manager at Smyth Lodge. Having joined Care UK earlier this year, Mark has successfully supported homes to a high standard, resulting in his appointment at the new build in Sidcup. 

Having previously worked in recruitment management, Mark wanted to change to something that suited his customer-focused skillset and joined Care UK in March 2018. He found working as a CRM for Care UK to be the perfect balance – both challenging and rewarding. He particularly enjoys building relationships with the local community and residents. 

Mark added: “It’s fantastic to be working with Care UK as they are so renowned within the healthcare industry. It was a difficult decision to leave my career in recruitment, but I’ve found my calling in my role as a customer relations manager. It’s great to be part of something with real purpose and meaning. I can’t wait to show people around the new home, and really give them a feel for what life is like at Smyth Lodge.”