A Passion for Care: New beginnings for Jenna

Getting to Know our New Manager

We sat down with our new Manager, Jenna, to learn what attracted her to Abbeyfield, the lessons she brings from her extensive care background, and her plans for the home.

From her deep passion for high-quality care to her great idea for a 'Pub Day' activity, get to know the person leading the team at Hill House.

What attracted you to the role at Hill House and what made you choose to work at Abbeyfield?

"I have worked as a manager for corporate and independent care providers in the past and have always been keen to give back to the community. This is what attracted me to Abbeyfield when the role became available at Hill House. The locality of Hill House is absolutely breathtaking and the building itself is beautiful, especially with its age."

Can you share a brief overview of your background before coming to Abbeyfield?

"I had a career change in April 2018 from being a Dental Nurse for thirteen and a half years. I have always been involved in care as my mother worked in care since we immigrated over from South Africa in September 2003. I grew to love being involved in care, and spent my free time volunteering in the homes where my mother worked. My grandparents passed away shortly after we moved over here, and that makes me passionate about high quality care for older people."

What has surprised or impressed you most about the residents and team at Hill House?

"I have been very impressed with family feel at Hill House, and the very caring and compassionate interaction between the team and the residents living at the home. I was welcomed so quickly into the team and felt that a real effort was made to make sure I was involved and kept informed from the offset."

What are your main goals for your first month?

"My main goals for my first month are to take in as much as possible and get to know the systems and procedures that Abbeyfield utilise. I also want to be fully immersed in my team and role to support and care for the residents of Hill House."

What aspects of the home are you most keen to understand more deeply in the coming weeks and months?

"I am keen to understand the layout of the home fully and the people that live here. I am also looking forward to understanding the team and any skills that they have, or interests within Health and Social Care, so that I can support their ongoing development and progression."

What do you think makes Hill House a special place for residents to live?

"Hill House has kept its 'old worldly' character. Hill House is nestled in a beautiful part of the countryside and has lovely garden areas for the residents to meander when the weather is good. There is a true family-feel within the home, from the moment you walk in the front door, and the atmosphere is incredibly warm and welcoming. There are so many things that make Hill House so special for residents and staff."

How important do you think it will be to connect with families and the local community as you establish yourself in your new role?

"Connecting with families and loved ones is incredibly important. They know our residents best and provide key insights into their needs, preferences, and history, allowing us to deliver the most personalised care possible. The local community is integral in our industry as they offer invaluable support in the form of volunteers, entertainment and donations. I believe in full transparency and open communication. By sharing some background about myself, I aim to keep everyone informed and establish a foundation of trust for our future interactions."

If you could instantly implement one non-traditional activity at Hill House, what would it be and why?

"I think something like a pub day, so that we could engage the residents in the community and get them involved in games that would take part in the pubs. Things like quizzes, sitting skittles, velcro darts and the likes. I'd also love to see a home vehicle, so that residents can be taken out daily to different places, enjoying the local garden centres or nearest seaside."

What’s one thing you’re personally hoping to learn from the Hill House staff and residents?

"I look forward to learning the dynamics and natures of the team and residents at Hill House. My goal is to transition smoothly into the team, understanding the personal connections and 'inside jokes' that make the home such a welcoming and friendly community."

What’s your favourite feature of Hill House that you’ve discovered so far?

"Even in the short time I've been at Hill House, my favorite features are already the residents and the team. Beyond the people, the stunning views and beautiful grounds make the building itself a truly special place."

What's one small thing that our residents and readers can know about you to help them get acquainted?

"I feel 'old at heart', I love family time, reading, knitting, crocheting, and I have an eclectic taste in music (ranging from Dean Martin, The Rat Pack and Frank Sinatra to more recent artists). I also love my rescue dogs and spend time outdoors with them a lot."

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