Issue 112 29.06.22
The weekly online newsletter for the care sector
Carers reunite with former school teacher THREE carers have been reunited with their former secondary school teacher in a Scottish home – with their roles reversing as the trio now look after and care for her. Jamie Giles, 37, Diane Ferry, 46, and Natasha Maunder, 30, are all carers at Balquhidder House, near Alexandria, part of Handsale Care Homes, and they have a host of fond memories of their school days, including their former teacher, 72-year-old resident Irene Mowatt – whom Natasha credits as inspiring her to get into the care sector. Irene dedicated more than 30 years of her life to teaching English Literature, starting at Sacred Heart High School in Paisley, before retiring from Vale of Leven Academy in 2007 – following 22 years of service. What started as a studentteacher relationship in the classroom has now transitioned into a tale of friendship and support following Irene’s move into care – proving that timeless friendships can be forged at any age, anytime, anywhere. Jamie, who has worked in care since she was 23, said: “Irene is a wonderful lady and we have such a laugh together. She always brightens my day and sometimes we reminisce about my school days which never fails to bring a smile to both our faces. Irene was an amazing teacher and it’s because of her that I passed my higher English exam – and for
that I’ll always be grateful!” Diane, who is in her sixth year as a care assistant at Balquhidder House, added: “I feel a great deal of privilege in helping Irene in her latest journey here. I remember her as a no-nonsense teacher – even the toughest students tended to behave in Mrs Mowatt’s classes.” Natasha, who has been working in the social care sector since she was a teenager, added: “It means a lot caring for Irene as she was my teacher at secondary school for my first and second year. “I lacked a lot of confidence at school, so Irene worked really hard to build that up by throwing me into situations I wouldn’t usually put myself in, such as reading in front of the class. Looking back, it really went a long way to help me come out of my shell. Looking after Irene gives me immense pride and I feel like I’m able to give back to someone who had such an influential role in my education, which, of course, played a major role in my decision to become a carer. All I can say is thank you, Irene – for everything.” Rishi Sodha, Handsale’s care director, said: ““I know it brings a real sense of joy and genuine reward for Jamie, Diane and Natasha to reunite with one of their favourite teachers – and they’re relishing the chance to nurture and care for someone who played such a key part in their formative years.
Care team is praised for long service
Anchor Hanover Group has announced the appointment of Sarah Jones as chief executive from August 1. It follows Jane Ashcroft’s decision to step down from the role at England’s largest not-for-profit provider of housing and care for older people. Sarah is currently Anchor’s chief financial officer and has been a member of the Anchor Board since April 1, 2020. Jane has held senior roles at Anchor for more than 20 years, including 12 as chief executive. She was made a CBE in 2013 for services to older people and has undertaken sector roles including chair of Care England, founding director and vice chair of ARCO and vice chair of the National Housing Federation. Sarah said: “I am delighted to be taking up the baton from Jane and look forward to maintaining Anchor’s focus on providing more and better homes. I am eager to ensure the organisation continues to evolve to meet the needs and expectations of the older people of today and tomorrow and I also want to build on our influence in this socially vital debate with Government and other stakeholders.”
AN Ixworth care home has praised the loyalty and dedication of its team with 20 of its long-serving members clocking up 243 years of service between them. The Beeches has formed a 20-person strong care team since the home was opened in 1985. Deputy home manager Bev Shave, who has worked at the home for 16 years, said: “We are very proud of our amazing care team. We have such tremendously committed members of staff which is brilliant. “The stability of our staff team helps us to build trusted relationships and deliver a consistent level of care for our residents, who are very dear to us and at the heart of everything we do at our care home. “Having such a committed team means that we are able to provide the very best levels of care, come rain, shine or snow.” “Following the Covid-19 pandemic, the care sector has faced recruitment and retention challenges in caring roles. However, we’re proud to have a very friendly, professional and experienced team here who have worked together for a number of years, whilst being able to offer support and career opportunities to our colleagues that help to make us an employer of choice in the local area.” Some of the longest standing members of the team include Angela Wade, home manager – 26 years; Ruth Skelhorn, cook – 27 years and Wendy Ainsley, care worker – 22 years.
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