Meet our people

Discover why joining Bupa was the best decision Veronica ever made

Born to care

“From a very young age, I wanted to be a nurse. So, when I left school, I studied a pre-nursing course. On qualification, I became a staff nurse in orthopaedic trauma.”

“It was exciting and a large percentage of patients were older people. But the ward was so busy you very rarely got to know your patients. After a time, I became disheartened with my job – there was never enough time for the patients and certainly no individual care! I could no longer work with de-motivated staff in an environment where, in my eyes - there was very little care or compassion.”

A more homely environment

“My ward sister told me that going to a nursing home was a bad move for my career. How wrong she was. I joined a nursing home as a bank RGN and loved the shifts. I could once again deliver essential nursing care to residents in a homely environment, rather than a noisy rushed ward.”

Career progression

“I was delighted to get the job of Head of Care at Shockerwick House, just as Bupa Care Homes took it over. It was the first of many promotions, as within three years of joining the home – I became the manager. Since then I’ve managed two other homes, overseen a refurbishment and an extension, and spent time as a relief Home Manager. I’m currently a Regional Manager with a portfolio of homes in the South region. Joining the world of care homes was the best decision I ever made – and I’ve never looked back.”

Learn why home care management was a family affair for Wendy.

Generations of care

“My stepmother was a Home Manager at Hammerwich Hall. So, home care management is in my blood. I initially worked as a playschool leader and as a fully qualified hairdresser. However I decided to move into care after nursing my stepmother who had terminal cancer. I felt it would be a rewarding profession. And joined the very same home she used to manage.”

The best thing about my job

“Responsible for managing a specialist residential home, I love the fact that every day is different. You never know what new challenges will unfold when you arrive at work in the morning.”

Perpetual was a bit nervous about moving into the private sector. How did it turn out?

“I’m originally from Ghana and came to the UK in 2001 to work as a healthcare assistant. After qualifying as a nurse and gaining my registration I worked in a number of clinical specialties, including A&E, day surgery and care of elderly people. But I feel happiest working with elderly people.”

Why I joined Bupa

“I was looking for a job close to home. I had a lot of friends who worked at River Court and they recommended it as a good place to work.”

“I must confess that I did have my doubts about leaving the NHS. And moving to the private sector was a big decision. I was especially worried about losing my pension. But in fact, I’m now earning more than enough to make up for that and put into a pension. Compared with my friends who are still working within the NHS - I’m better off.”

My concerns

“I was a bit worried that I wouldn’t have the same access to training and development so I raised it at my interview. I was reassured that Bupa Care Homes take staff development very seriously and that I would have access to training and education – including university.”

“Take it from me that River Court’s need for excellent nurses and Bupa’s focus on staff development means that you’ll continually develop your skills. Since I’ve been here, I’ve done courses in venepuncture, tissue viability and quality and compassion in care of older people. And I’m hoping to get funding to do a university course on enhancing person-centred care for older people.”

The care home I work in

“River Court is a really homely environment that offers quality convalescence, respite and palliative care to up to 120 people with physical or mental health nursing needs. I mainly care for older people with a range of physical needs, such as mobility assistance, nutritional care and pressure ulcer prevention.”

Caring for elderly people

“I feel this is my comfort zone. And I think it’s an important area to work in. Families often find it difficult to care for older people, especially if they have dementia. And that’s where nurses step in. I see my residents as an extension of my family, and we all try to make River Court a home from home, giving them choices and protecting their privacy and dignity.”

“I find it rewarding to care for people in the long-term and to really get to know them. This wasn’t possible in acute care. So, in my experience leaving the health service has been a good move.”

My future?

“I don’t think I’d go back to the NHS. I see myself staying at Bupa Care Homes and developing my skills and career. I certainly don’t regret my move into the private sector especially as we don’t have shareholders and all surplus income is re-invested in training, facilities and resources to help us provide even better care.”

From stacking shelves to ‘Regional Apprentice of the Year’ – read Michelle’s story.

“I left my job in a supermarket because a career in care offered me fantastic opportunities for personal development and the chance to make a difference to people’s lives. I know that what I do every day is not spectacular, but doing it well makes a world of difference to the elderly people I care for.”

From Southampton to Thailand

“I was lucky enough to be one of 60 volunteers from across Bupa chosen to help renovate an orphanage in Thailand called Sarnelli House. My wonderful experience in Thailand reinforced my wish to work in the care sector.”

Regional Apprentice of the Year

“I’m proud and a bit surprised to be chosen from over 300 applicants as the “Regional Apprentice of the Year”. I was the only care assistant nominated and my award was presented by Matt Dawson and Charlotte Hawkins at a glittering ceremony hosted by the Learning and Skills Council.”

A career in care

“When I was a child I wanted to be a ballet dancer! But a career in care is ideal for me as I get great satisfaction from looking after our residents and ensuring that they are as safe and comfortable as possible.”

Caring for residents and the team
“I’ve worked at the same home for over 10 years. As a senior carer I support nurses and carers to ensure that they perform at their best. And that in turn, they can ensure every day is special for our residents.”

“The best thing about my job is helping people and making a difference to their day.”

Why did moving from a restaurant suit Barry?

“After a decade of working in busy restaurants, I initially found it a bit of a challenge to adapt. Don’t get me wrong, being a chef in a care home still has its pressures but it’s less intense. That suited me because I wanted to do more. As everyone here was really friendly and the hours were more sociable I soon felt at home and part of the team.”

Getting involved
“It can sometimes be difficult to feel involved in the bigger picture when you’re in the kitchen. But at Bupa Care Homes being able to sit down with Patricia, our activity co-ordinator has made a big difference. We talk about her plans and the different themed events we’ll be holding each month. Then I’ll contribute my ideas before looking at recipe books and doing some research on the internet.”

Being creative
“I always try to be as creative as I can be. We’ve recently held a tropical day and a medieval afternoon where I made big platters of meats, grapes, bread and cheese. I feel much more involved and it helps us to make sure that things are well organised. Most importantly is that our residents enjoy themselves.”