Every week we hear from our residents, they regale us with stories of their antics at Layston Grove. It is so lovely to hear how much they enjoy their life with us and how keen they are to share their experiences to help others feel reassured that life in a residential home is not the scary prospect some might envisage.
The lifestyle team work diligently to create an inclusive programme of activities that caters to all needs, and they are well supported to do this by our manager Sam Campbell.
Sam has held the post of manager at Layston Grove for over three years initially working for Oakdale Homes and remaining in the position during the transition from Oakdale to Halcyon Care Homes earlier this year. We are lucky to have her.
Sam comes from a family of carers. Her mother worked in social care for many years and both of her sisters are in caring professions. Sam began her career in social care 18 years ago as a part-time bank care assistant. Little did she know at the time that over the years that followed she would work up way up the career ladder to the position of manager.
Sam brings a wealth of hands-on experience to the role, having worked for many years delivering care. Sam has genuine first-hand knowledge of how to run an outstanding service, she understands both the wants and needs of our residents and is passionate and determined.
What sets Sam apart from other managers is her ability to maintain excellent relationships with both her team and her residents. Sam does not spend all day at her desk, and neither would she want to. She can often be found rustling up a meal in the kitchen or helping the housekeeping team and she regularly joins the care team to assist wherever she can.
Sam told us “To run a home effectively you must see everything from both sides. I like to work with all teams to experience the home as they do, only then can I really see where improvements can be made.”
I asked Sam what her favourite part of the job is, and she couldn’t pinpoint one specific area. She is as happy in the kitchen as she is behind her desk or joining in with activities. To be able to witness residents living happy and fulfilled lives only drives Sam’s desire to improve.
Sam told us that she could never imagine working anywhere other than in social care which is good news for us and great news for our residents.