Ita, 81, Celebrates 50 Years of Looking After Residents at Care South

A carer has dedicated 50 years to providing compassionate care and support to care home residents.

Ita Graven, Care Team Leader at Elizabeth House care home, on Dolbery Road, has celebrated half a century of working for Care South, a not-for-profit charity, which is a leading provider of care homes and care at home services across the south of England.

Ita started her care career in July 1974 and has worked at a number of Care South’s homes in Dorset over the years. However, she has spent the past 10 years working at Elizabeth House, where she provides relief shifts.

Elizabeth House residents and the team hosted a party to celebrate Ita’s 50th work anniversary with a party complete with balloon, decorations, music and party food. She was also presented with a ‘50’ signed which had messages written on it from the residents and care home team.

Ita celebrated her 80th birthday last year, but says that she currently has no plans to retire as she thinks she might get ‘bored.’

Ita added: “I love it. No two days are the same. I wouldn’t want to do anything else. Each resident is unique. They come to us so that we can look after them and I enjoy ensuring that they receive the best care for their personal needs.

“It’s good for the mind. Elizabeth House is a very nice home to work in.”

Elouise Powell, Home Manager at Elizabeth House, said:
“We were so pleased to be able to celebrate and give our thanks for the dedicated care that Ita has provided over the past 50 years to Care South residents. She is a cheery face and a welcome, calming presence to the residents whether they’re having a good or bad day. She remembers all the little details about the residents and goes the extra mile to support them to live happy, fulfilling lives at the home.”