Brendoncare Alton

Nicola has 40 years of experience in social care. She started in children’s services, but after 10 years, Nicola moved across to adult services, including dementia and nursing. She then spent 18 years employed in a series of interim social care management roles, working for larger companies and single care homes.

Both my mother and my grandmother had a passion for caring and their dedication to helping other people inspired me to train as a nurse. I graduated in nursing in 2005, then took a Masters degree in Psychology and Cognitive Behavioural Therapy (CBT) in 2008. After having worked in two private settings, I started working in social care in 2015 and joined Brendoncare in 2018 as Deputy Manager. I am deeply passionate about making a positive impact in people's lives, especially in a field where understanding, empathy and support are crucial.

Outside work, I enjoy spending time with my family and watching my young daughter growing up and exploring the world around her. My husband restores classic cars and we enjoy going to car races and shows and have even won some international competitions.

My 12 years of social care experience have been mainly working for corporate nursing home providers in customer-facing roles supporting families seeking residential care for their loved ones. I joined Brendoncare in 2017 initially as a wellbeing coordinator, bringing fun and joy to residents’ lives through a range of activities. After a brief spell in 2019 working for another care provider, I returned to Brendoncare as Customer Relations Manager. This role involves supporting new residents and their families to ensure their move to a Brendoncare home goes as smoothly as possible.

I enjoy watercolour painting and entering amateur photography competitions. I love the smell of freshly cut grass and fragrant roses in my garden – appreciating the beauty of life’s simple pleasures means so much to me.

I have been working in health and social care since I left education in 2010 working with many sectors of different ages and abilities but my true passion lies with independent living due to their wittiness and not being afraid to tell you how it is!

I have a family of 2 and a Miniature Dachshund all of which keep me busy! I love to socialise and get involved in anything and everything! When I do have spare time, I enjoy swimming/walks and simply enjoying a glass of bubbles in the summer evenings.

I started at Brendoncare Alton in the summer of 2016 as a care assistant, I then progressed to a senior carer and I have now been doing the role of practice educator for just over 2 years. I enjoy supporting new starters and ensuring they all have a good concept of Brendoncare's core values.

Outside work, I have a keen interest in attending personal training sessions and yoga. I also enjoy reading, with my favourite genres being romance and fantasy. I also spend a lot of time with my niece and nephew being the fun cool Auntie!

Michael joins Brendoncare Alton as its Administrator after a long career in international markets, mainly working in Hong Kong, Singapore, and Malaysia. He is excited to bring his experiences in banking and finance to the team.

I have worked for Brendoncare for 2 years and very much enjoy my role here. When not working I enjoy reading, crocheting, and walking my dog.