Chandler Court

I’ve been part of the Chandler Court team for a few years and have been Clinical Lead as well as Deputy Manager. I originally joined the team because Care UK’s vision and values resonated with me. I also wanted to be part of an organisation that’s leading the way in the health and social care sector.

I’m a Registered Nurse and have worked for various providers in acute and residential care services. I was a Critical Care Nurse in the NHS and the private sector for some years. I always wanted to work in residential care because you have the time to get to know the people you’re caring for, which is extremely rewarding. A nurse in the NHS doesn’t get that opportunity.

Every day is rewarding in this role. Being able to make a person smile or laugh, or to bring them comfort, is the reason why I do this job. Any difference I can make to a resident’s day, no matter how small, is a big highlight for me.

I have over 25 years’ experience in sales and started to work in the care sector in 2019. I loved this experience and felt I’d be an asset, with my skillset, knowledge and experience, to join the Chandler Court team. I’d passed the home many times on my travels and always thought Chandler Court looked like a lovely modern care home. It’s fantastic to be finally working here.

In this role it’s important to be empathetic about the challenges that families are facing and the struggles they’re going through. Building an atmosphere of trust with families is key. I’m passionate about the superb care delivered by our team, and the great lifestyle that Chandler Court residents enjoy, so I’m genuinely excited about the possibilities for people who move here to experience a truly fulfilling life. 

I’ve worked as a chef in the care home sector for a long time and have even won awards for what I do. I love cooking for people and being able to make a difference to an older person’s day. The residents appreciate the little touches – the way food is presented and served. It’s great to get their instant feedback. 

Being part of a team launching a brand new care home is both challenging and exciting at the same time! We need to make sure we get things right from the start, so the pressure’s on, but the rewards are just as great. 

Away from work I love to travel: I’ve a long list of places I want to see. I also enjoy spending time with family, including my two grandchildren. And, of course, I enjoy cooking – particularly finding new recipes to try. 

I’ve been part of the Chandler Court team since it opened in 2018. I wanted to work in the care sector, I did some research and discovered that Care UK had a great reputation, so I applied for the role. I actually started here as Head Housekeeper as I had a background in cleaning services, but I later joined the Lifestyle team. That was something I’d wanted to do for a while, and I’m so grateful to have been given the opportunity.

In this role it’s important to be positive and confident because it’s up to us to lift the spirits of residents, make them happy and to keep them engaged. Everyone in the Lifestyle team has different qualities which we bring to the team, and we’ve built strong relationships with residents over the years. We work really well together too.

I have many years’ experience in care home management, and when this role at Chandler Court came up, it was an exciting opportunity to be part of a brand new home within a company that is committed to providing excellent care.

I love meeting people and building relationships with the residents I help to care for, and their loved ones. It’s a good feeling knowing that you’ve made a positive difference to someone’s day. 

Here at Chandler Court I'm also the Infection Prevention & Control (IPC) Champion. In essence, my role involves establishing and maintaining a high standard of hygiene and cleanliness so that residents, colleagues and visitors are kept safe. I provide infection control training and am on hand to support our team to work to the highest standards.

I’ve worked for Care UK since 2013. Before joining the company I was a support worker in the community. I would give emotional and practical support to people living with dementia, as well as people living with addictions and mental health challenges. 

It was quite a challenge to change career path, but the company is very supportive. It was a huge highlight to be offered this role, and to be recognised for my customer relationship skills. I’m really enjoying getting to know my colleagues, the residents themselves as well as their families.