Fernihurst Nursing Home

My name is Nikki, and I am the manager at Fernihurst Nursing Home.

I have been in the care industry for 38 years, supporting care services throughout Devon and Somerset. I have won the Care Home Managers' Award in East Devon for Outstanding Person-centred care for the Enhanced Health in Care Homes Programme. I have achieved the Top 20 Care Home Award in Southwest England.

During my career, I worked hard to turn around inadequate care homes, which I have achieved. I believe in creating a workplace where staff are listened to, valued, and supported. I believe that if the staff are empowered to deliver their best, this directly impacts the quality of care the residents receive, being the highest standard of compassionate person-centred care

I am very passionate about my job. When I am not at work, I like to spend time with my family. I am married to a Police sergeant and have 3 children who are all grown up, we enjoy holidays together and creating memories. I am also passionate about gardening and spending time outdoors.

My professional journey has taken many paths before ultimately leading me to my true vocation as a nurse. I began my career in Trinidad, serving in a paramilitary organisation under the Ministry of National Security, where I developed discipline, resilience, and a deep sense of responsibility. I later gained international experience working with Royal Caribbean in the hospitality industry, before returning home to work in the oil and gas sector as a Fire Rescue Technician. Each of these roles shaped me, building strong leadership skills, cultural awareness, and the ability to remain calm and compassionate under pressure.

Despite my varied career background and many achievements, nursing older people has always been my calling. Caring for the elderly is not just a profession to me - it is a purpose rooted in empathy, respect, and human connection.

I am a Registered Nurse and currently the Nurse Manager at Fernihurst Nursing Home. Working at Fernihurst has allowed me to develop a deep and meaningful understanding of dementia, Alzheimer’s disease, neurodivergent conditions, and the behavioural and psychological challenges associated with complex needs. This experience has strengthened my commitment to compassionate, person-centred care that honours dignity, individuality, and life history.

The journey has not always been easy, but it has been deeply rewarding. The consistent support of my team and senior management has made this transition smoother - not just for me, but for the whole team. At Fernihurst, we work closely with external professionals, health and social care partners, and our local community to ensure that each resident’s care is truly optimised and always delivered in their best interests.

Fernihurst holds a special place in my heart. Its rich cultural diversity reflects Sanctuary’s values of equality, inclusion, and respect, and it creates a sense of belonging for residents, families, and staff alike. For many, Fernihurst is their home, and within these walls we are more than colleagues- we are an extended family, united by compassion, trust, and a shared commitment to providing the highest standard of care.

I have worked at Fernihurst for over 8 years.

My job role working with the residents and family members is very rewarding, no two days are the same.

We have very welcoming staff, and we all work together as one big family. It is a pleasure to be part of the team.

Coming from a retail manager's position after 20 years, a change in career led me to our home. Being on reception, I am privileged to get to meet the lovely families and friends of our residents. Being the first "port of call" its obviously important that I make sure that everyone gets a warm welcome and queries are dealt with in a friendly and timely manner.

I came to the UK in 2024 for a change in career direction, as I was previously employed in the public health sector in the Philippines. Now that I am doing bedside nursing, I have learned a lot, and it has broadened my horizon in relation to my profession, and I have also enhanced my skills.

Being employed under Sanctuary Care, specifically in Fernihurst, is a blessing for me because it has given me opportunities not only to touch lives but also to improve the quality of life of the residents that we are taking care of in our home and also their relatives.

I came to the UK in 2021 as a student and joined Fernihurst under sponsorship in 2023.

My role as a carer allows me to support and care for families' loved ones, and I am proud to be part of the Fernihurst team.

I came alone from Zimbabwe in 2023 to work at Fernihurst. I was worried that life would be lonely, and working with strangers would be hard, but it all changed from the very 1st welcome from the Sanctuary/Fernihurst Team. Working here has been amazing and fun. I have learnt so much from my colleagues; it is a blessing to work with such great people.