Stepping up to the plate – Copthorne care home hero crowned

Home news

Sep 14, 2020

A care home in Copthorne has praised a team member for his dedication, hard work and passion throughout the coronavirus pandemic. 

Andy Marshall, head chef at Care UK’s Francis Court, on Borers Arms Road, has been named a ‘Care UK Hero’ for going above and beyond for colleagues and residents 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, the competition aims to shine a light on these exceptional people.

Andy was praised by his colleagues for going above and beyond for residents throughout the pandemic and for always innovating and creating new, tasty dishes adapted to residents’ dietary needs. Despite working longer hours to support his colleagues, he also found the time to prepare special date night meals for two couples living at the home. Daphne and Terry Cooper were treated to smoked salmon and asparagus, while Alan and Betty Pocock enjoyed a lighter meal with a view in the garden lounge.

Andy said: “I’m delighted to have been chosen as a Care UK Hero. Knowing that my dishes have made a difference throughout these challenging times means the world to me, and I’m pleased I was able to do my part in supporting the rest of the team. Everyone at Francis Court has worked tirelessly over the past few months and I couldn’t be prouder to produce delicious food for this incredible care home family.”

Anna Allen, home manager at Francis Court, added: “The past few months have been challenging for the whole team, but Andy’s cheerful and co-do attitude went a long way – and so did his delicious meals and treats!  

“Meal times are an important part of residents’ routines, and no one understands this better than Andy. Not only has he maintained the highest possible food standards, he has also gone out of his way to treat two couples to a very special dinner to give them the opportunity to spend quality time together. 

“From our nurses and lifestyle coordinators, to our housekeepers and chefs, everyone has done a tremendous job over the past few months, and I cannot thank Andy and the rest of the team enough for their hard work and for continuing to make Francis Court a wonderful place to live.” 

Francis Court 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, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care.  

For more information on Francis Court, please call customer relations manager, Beverly Jordan, on 01342 886 567, or email beverly.jordan@careuk.com 

For general information please visit careuk.com/francis-court