From a village in Pakistan to leading Sandwood Care Home

 Asma Haque’s Inspiring Journey

Asma Haque’s journey from a remote village in Northern Pakistan to becoming the Care Home Manager at Sandwood is a testament to resilience, determination, and the power of community support.

Early life and new beginnings

Born in 1988, Asma grew up in a village that had limited access to education and employment, especially for women. Her childhood was simple, and she found joy in sewing, a hobby she still cherishes today.

At 18, Asma married and moved to England in 2007. With the encouragement of her husband and his family, she began learning English and successfully completed ESOL up to Entry Level 3. This marked the beginning of her integration into British society and her career in the care sector.

Building a career in care

Asma quickly found her calling in the care industry, where she developed her language skills and built confidence. Over the years, she worked various shifts and roles, which included day, night, part-time, full-time, and even as a self-employed carer. Her versatility led her to Sandwood, where she started as an agency worker.

Her career progression has been remarkable; from domestic assistant to head chef, senior care assistant, deputy manager, and now Care Home Manager. Each role has shaped her understanding of care and deepened her commitment to the wellbeing of residents.

Finding a home at Abbeyfield

Asma officially became Care Home Manager at Sandwood on 1 January 2025. The transition was challenging, especially with no senior staff in place at the time. However, the support from the Abbeyfield team made a significant difference.

“Abbeyfield’s values aren’t just words, they are something I have experienced,” Asma shares. “Even when my English was still developing, I was given trust and opportunities. I’ll always be grateful.”

She takes pride in the diversity at Sandwood, where staff and residents work together as one team. “When I arrived, I was made to feel so comfortable. That sense of belonging is what makes Sandwood special.”

Championing inclusivity and creating a family

In Pakistan, care homes are rare whereby elderly people typically live with their families. Asma recalls feeling emotional and anxious on her first day in care. It was her mother’s visit in 2012 that changed her perspective. Her mother told her, “You’re far away, so give the care you can’t give me to others.”

That moment became the foundation of Asma’s philosophy: treat residents like family.

This belief drives her inclusive approach. Residents are given choices in their daily lives from meal preferences to wake-up times. Cultural and religious needs are respected, such as providing Halal or none Halal meals or accommodating prayer times. Staff receive regular training to ensure care plans reflect each resident’s values and preferences.

For example, a resident with dementia who has always attended church continues to do so, thanks to staff understanding its importance.

Connecting with the community

Asma actively builds bridges between Sandwood and the wider community. Local churches visit regularly, and a new volunteer programme is introducing weekly religious celebrations. A playgroup visits every Thursday, bringing joy to residents through intergenerational activities. Plans are also underway for local school children to visit and celebrate festivals like Easter, Christmas and Eid.

Looking ahead

Asma is currently pursuing a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management to further enhance her skills. She sees a long future at Abbeyfield and hopes Sandwood can serve as a model of inclusive, person-centred care.

“I want communities to see how Abbeyfield supports all cultures and meets everyone’s needs,” she says. “Sandwood is a place where everyone belongs.”

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