Meet Charlotte, our dedicated Home Manager at Sandpiper Care Home

What sparked your interest in pursuing a career in care?

I’ve always had a passion for helping others, initially aspiring to become a midwife. However, seeing my mother dedicated to her work in the care sector inspired me to follow in her footsteps. My journey began at 18 when I started working in a care home, and since then, I’ve never looked back. Making a positive impact on people’s lives is incredibly fulfilling.

Could you share a bit about your background and previous experiences in care homes?

My experience in the care industry spans various sectors, from elderly care to mental health support. While I’ve enjoyed working in diverse environments, I’ve always found myself drawn back to care homes. I thrive in the sense of community and teamwork they offer. My diverse experiences have equipped me with valuable skills that I’ve been able to apply to my current role.

What attracted you to Sandpiper Care Home?

I’ve been with Tanglewood since 2021, and the company’s values align closely with my own. When I learned about the Home Manager position at Sandpiper, I was intrigued. The home’s size, with 30 beds and strong occupancy rates, appealed to me as it offered a manageable setting for my first role as a Home Manager. Additionally, the strong sense of community within the home and the stability of the team were significant positives.

How do you approach getting acquainted with your residents?

I believe in hands-on interaction with residents, whether during activities or mealtimes. Spending quality time with them is the highlight of my day. I also maintain an open-door policy, inviting residents to chat with me in my office over a cup of tea or coffee. Building relationships with residents, especially during pre-admissions, is the foundation for lasting connections.

What do you enjoy most about working as a home manager?

Seeing residents happy and thriving at Sandpiper brings me immense joy. Positive feedback about meals, activities, or the impact of our staff members warms my heart.

Can you share a particularly memorable or rewarding experience from your role as a home manager?

My first day at Sandpiper stands out as an unforgettable experience. The warm welcome I received from the team made me feel part of the Sandpiper family instantly. Receiving positive feedback during quality assurance visits and sharing it with the team also ranks among my most rewarding experiences.

What are some of your favorite hobbies or interests outside of work?

Outside of work, I cherish spending time with my beloved pets—a cat named Willow, a dog named Charlie, and two Guinea Pigs, Eddie and Logan. I also enjoy spontaneous adventures across the country with my wife, exploring new places without any set plans.

Do you have any goals or aspirations for your career as Home Manager?

I aspire to achieve an outstanding CQC rating for Sandpiper with the support of our dedicated team. It’s a goal that I believe is not only achievable but also within reach.

What sets you apart as a Home Manager?

My unwavering drive to excel sets me apart. I continuously seek ways to enhance our home and services, driven by a philosophy of learning from mistakes to deliver an even better experience for our residents.

How do you foster a sense of community among those living at Sandpiper?

We foster a strong sense of community through regular group events and activities tailored to residents’ interests. Residents actively participate in interviews, activity planning, and providing valuable feedback, ensuring everyone feels involved and valued.

Can you share any exciting events or activities coming up at Sandpiper?

We have some fun events lined up, including Crazy Hair Day for both the team and residents. Additionally, we’re planning a summer fair, inviting the community to join us for a day filled with activities and camaraderie. It’s a fantastic opportunity for everyone to come together and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere at Sandpiper.