Doreen Celebrates 30 Years At Walstead Place

Doreen, who is described by Home Manager Jacquie Ferguson as ‘the epitome of what a carer in 2017 should be’ first started working at Walstead Place in 1987. At that time her children were school age so she commenced on night duty, gradually moving onto day duty and helping out in a variety of departments throughout the home.

Jacquie said; “I came here as manager in 2010, so have known Doreen just over seven years. I would say that Doreen is the epitome of what a carer in 2017 should be – conscientious, kind, committed to her residents and the job in hand.

“Doreen is a pleasure to have on my team, I wish I could clone her and make a blueprint to share amongst all carers. She continues to work tirelessly and has no plans to retire yet, I look forward to working with Doreen for some years yet.”

Doreen was recognised for her outstanding work in the field of older person’s care last year winning the Care Home Worker Award 2016 from West Sussex Partners in Care and she is the current National Care Awards Carer of the Year. She was also given special recognition for her achievements at the Caring Homes Group Recognition Awards 2017.

Doreen combines her care role with activities at Walstead Place, working alongside the other activities co-ordinators developing an exceptional activity programme. She has also developed a passion for dementia care and has been instrumental in developing dementia activities. Doreen also acts as a mentor to junior colleagues, having trained as a ‘buddy’, passing on her knowledge and expertise to the benefit of the residents at Walstead Place.