Our team at
Cumberland

My catering career began back in 1979 working in a gentleman’s club in Westminster. I left 20 years’ later having run it and having cooked for US presidents and royalty and every MP you can think of. I then ran my own coaching inn, in Sussex before heading back to the city to be the Head Chef at one of the livery halls.

I’ve overseen huge corporate functions and met some very interesting people, I even worked for Sir Alan Sugar at Tottenham FC. I then thought I’d retire, but when I got bored of daytime TV I decided I wanted to try a completely new sector. I’d never worked in the care sector, and, while it’s hard work, it’s hugely rewarding.

I joined the Cumberland team in the summer of 2021. I bring a passion for delicious, fresh food and a belief in the importance of quality and flavour in cooking. Attention to detail and presentation are crucial. Many residents here need a soft texture diet, so food has to be attractive as well as tasty for them to eat it. Everything we do is tailored to the individual. Whether a person is from Poland, Ireland or Jamaica, they are served dishes that are familiar and reassuring to them.

My mother worked at Care UK for 12 years and suggested I also joined the company. I started as a bank worker in 2018, and have been here ever since, working my way up to being Head Housekeeper.

I enjoy working in the home, as the work day is often broken up by chatting and joking with the residents. It always helps bring light to a stressful day.

The role requires an array of skills, including excellent organisation, and efficiency. As well as being friendly, patient, and understanding. Ultimately, the most important part of my role is to know each and every resident as an individual and knowing how to best meet their needs.

I am proud to know that myself and the team work hard every day to ensure a clean and comfortable environment.

I joined Cumberland in 2019, having previously gained maintenance experience working within hotels.

I started at the home at a difficult time, as we soon faced dealing with the pandemic. But as a team, we were able to work hard and overcome these challenges. We went on to win an award for best facilities management.

My favorite part of working within the care home is that you can make the residents day better. Making sure that they are happy and safe. Getting to make them smile means everything.

I look forward to continuing to create a safe and happy environment for residents in the home.