Meet Penny, Team Leader at Moorhouse Care Home
We are delighted to introduce Penny, a dedicated and compassionate team leader at Moorhouse Care Home. Penny joined us just over three months ago and has quickly become an invaluable member of our team. With a background in various areas of care, Penny brings a wealth of experience and a fresh perspective to our home. Let's get to know her better.
Can you tell us about your role at Moorhouse Care Home?
Penny: My name is Penny, and I've been here at Moorhouse Care Home for just over three months as a team leader. My role is to support and encourage as much independence as possible for our residents and assist them through any changes in their lives, among many other things.
What motivated you to join the care home sector?
Penny: I have been in and out of working in care since I was 16, and I'm now 45. My granddad was always a big supporter of helping people with disabilities, and my aunt, who caught polio in the 50s, had severe cerebral palsy. Growing up around disabilities, I knew this was the field I wanted to work in. Although I started working with children, I found my heart was more suited to elder care, especially those with dementia.
What does a typical day look like for you?
Penny: A typical day starts with a handover, followed by allocating tasks to the team. We conduct our first medication round, then assist on the floor as much as possible. At 11 o'clock, we have a flash meeting with managers and department heads to discuss any concerns. The rest of the day includes more medication rounds, handling emails and calls, and engaging residents in activities, especially if our activity coordinator is unavailable. We love to get residents out in the garden or enjoy a spontaneous quiz or song and dance session.
What do you find most rewarding about working with people with dementia?
Penny: I love leading them through their last chapter and helping them reminisce, which brings them great comfort. Seeing the smiles on their faces and knowing you’ve made a positive impact is incredibly fulfilling.
How has your experience been with the team at Moorhouse Care Home?
Penny: I have never felt so welcomed by a team from day one. Everyone has been amazing. The diversity here is wonderful, and we all work harmoniously together.
What kind of training or development opportunities have you pursued?
Penny: I've completed various training programs, including Train the Trainer courses for moving and handling and first aid. Moorhouse Care Home is supportive in providing any training that can help us assist each other better.
Why would you recommend Moorhouse Care Home to potential residents and their families?
Penny: The atmosphere here is incredibly welcoming, and the care provided by our staff is top-notch. The building itself is beautiful, but what truly matters is the quality of care, and residents receive excellent care here.
What advice would you give to someone considering a career in a care home environment?
Penny: Use common sense, have empathy, and be hard-working. These qualities are essential for anyone looking to work in this field.
We are grateful to have Penny as part of the Moorhouse Care Home family. Her dedication and passion for care shine through in everything she does, making a positive impact on both residents and colleagues.