Vanessa discusses her goals for Lee House
There’s a new face leading the team at Lee House. We are thrilled to welcome Vanessa Clouston, our new Care Home Manager. With over ten years of experience in the charity and older people care sector, Vanessa brings a wealth of expertise, compassion, and an exciting vision for the future of our home and community.
We recently sat down with Vanessa to learn more about her background, what drew her to Abbeyfield, and her goals for Lee House.
Inspired by care and community
What was it about Lee House and the Abbeyfield mission that inspired you to apply for this role?
I previously worked in the charity sector, and I was drawn to Abbeyfield due to their nearly 70 years of providing care to older people. Their values—centred on care, compassion, community, integrity, and excellence—aligned perfectly with my personal beliefs. I prefer to work for organisations where residents come first, as older people are often forgotten in society. Lee House particularly impressed me as a home filled with happiness; residents looked cheery and well looked after.
Can you share a bit about your background and what gives you the greatest joy in working within the care sector?
I am originally from South Africa. While I initially completed a degree in Business Management, I transitioned into the care sector and have worked in older people care and the charity sector for over ten years in management positions.
My greatest joy is knowing that I have improved vulnerable people’s quality of life. Bringing a smile to a resident brings a smile to me.
A vision for the future
What lessons or best practices from your previous roles are you excited to bring to Lee House?
I have learned the importance of treating residents and staff as individuals with their own unique stories, journeys, and perspectives. Having worked in very multicultural homes, I am excited to bring a varied and inclusive perspective to Lee House.
What is your vision or goal for the culture and community of Lee House over the coming years?
The needs of older people in the United Kingdom are changing, including evolving preferences and a greater need for support for dementia-related conditions. My goal is to ensure that Lee House is adaptable and ready to meet these changing needs. This will mean continuous development and training for our staff team and implementing measures to meet the needs of current and future residents.
What steps will you take to deepen the positive relationship between Lee House and the wider community?
I believe the community should feel welcome at Lee House. I intend to host open days, including informational sessions on specific issues affecting older people. I also plan to visit local stakeholders and forums to offer support from Lee House. We now have an open invitation for people in the community to pop in for a cup of tea anytime if they feel like socialising with others—we are advertising this widely.
The happy side of care
What’s one thing about working in a care home that you think surprises people who haven’t done it before?
I think people who haven't had experience in working or visiting a care home may be surprised at what a happy and fun experience it can be. There are still outdated misapprehensions that working at a care home is depressing or sad, but that is far from the truth here.
What’s one small thing you’ve observed at Lee House that has already brought a smile to your face?
A carer knowing the exact biscuits a particular resident likes to have with tea each day. Seeing this small, simple treat light up the face of the resident was wonderful.
If a family member was considering Lee House for their loved one, what is the most compelling reason you would encourage them to choose this home?
Our staff team. They are committed, knowledgeable, and genuinely love what they do. They will be there for you through the ups and downs of life.
Looking ahead
Is there a life lesson or piece of advice you’ve picked up from a resident during your career that you carry with you?
Do not hold onto grudges or negative feelings. Life moves quickly, and it is better to try to be happy through difficult times as well as good. When you look back, most grievances seem minor in retrospect.
If you could send one message to the current and future residents and families of Lee House, what would it be?
We are here for you. We want to ensure that residents feel safe, happy, well looked after, and seen as individual people. We want to help and support through any challenges, including supporting families to best look after their loved ones. You should never feel alone when you are at Lee House.
With Christmas fast approaching, what are you most looking forward to sharing with the Lee House community?
I am looking forward to Christmas Jumper Day with the residents! Experiencing a cold winter is still a fond novelty for me, being from the Southern Hemisphere. I think the residents will enjoy it too.
Discover Lee House
Nestled right in the heart of Wimbledon Village, Lee House offers a peaceful and welcoming residential care setting for older people. The home is known for its exceptional, personalised care delivered by a compassionate team, alongside great facilities including lovely gardens, communal lounges, and an on-site hairdresser. Residents enjoy nutritious meals and a variety of engaging activities, all within a short walk of the village shops and Wimbledon Common. Lee House also offers flexible respite care options for temporary support.
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