Blooming marvellous - Eye care home hero crowned

Home news

Aug 17, 2020

Residents and colleagues at a care home in Eye have praised team members for their dedication, hard work and passion throughout the coronavirus pandemic.

Heather Mercer, day centre manager, at Care UK’s Hartismere Place, on Castleton Way, has been named as a ‘Care UK Hero’ for going above and beyond for colleagues, residents and the local community in recent months.

The nomination was shared as part of a nationwide search for Care UK Heroes throughout its 122 care homes. From outstanding colleagues, to residents who have ensured morale remains high, this competition aims to shine a light on these exceptional people.

Since the day centre had to close its doors due to lock down restrictions, Heather joined the home team at Hartismere Place, turning her hand to anything and everything to support her colleagues. She adapted to changing needs of the home quickly and provided invaluable extra support for the management team. Heather also became the colleague’s representative, helping to counsel and advise team members with any problems.

As lockdown restrictions began to lift, green-fingered Heather spent two days in the garden, digging, watering and planting, to ensure everything looked nice, ready for socially distanced, outdoor visits from relatives.

Heather said: “I’m so thrilled to have been chosen as a Care UK Hero! I’m incredibly proud of the environment we have created here at Hartismere Place, and although challenging, the past few months have reinforced just how important the service we provide is for residents and their families. I couldn’t be prouder to be part of such a fantastic team.”

Abhilash Gopi, home manager at Hartismere Place, added: “Heather has, and continues to be, a huge asset to the team and we are delighted that she has been named as a Care UK Hero. 

“Whether she’s supporting her colleagues emotionally, or spending several days in the garden on the hottest days of the year, Heather’s dedication is second to none. Her positive, kind and friendly nature has raised everyone’s spirits, and has really helped us to get through the past few months. 

“From our nurses and lifestyle coordinators, to our housekeepers and chefs, everyone has done a tremendous job, and I cannot thank Heather and the rest of the team enough for making Hartismere Place a wonderful place to live.”

Hartismere Place has been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The home provides full-time residential and nursing care, as well as short-term respite.

To find out more about Hartismere Place, please contact senior customer relations manager, Angela Hodge, on 0333 920 2997 or email angela.hodge@careuk.com

For more general information visit careuk.com/hartismere-place