Barchester Thistle Hill Care Home

Hello Thank you for taking the time to look further into what we have to offer you or your loved one. Here is an opportunity to look at some of our staff team in the home, who all play a vital role in day-to-day life.

I have worked in the healthcare sector since the 1990s and bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role.  My career has progressed over the years, including spending many years in the NHS, and I am proud to have been recognised as an RCN Finalist in 2022 for Patients Choice Award, GBCH North East Highly Commended Nurse 2022 regional finals and Caring Times Care Homes Hero 2022. I am very passionate about ensuring the residents receive the best care and experience, with a special interest in dementia care.

Hi, my name is Pratheesh, and I am Deputy Manager here at Thistle Hill Care Home

I started working in care as helping others and making a difference gives me purpose and drive and I continuously strive to improve my skill set every day so that the residents receive the best possible care and so that I can lead the team well – I have now been promoted to Deputy General Manager and I am excited for the future here at Thistle Hill Care Home.

I love getting to know the residents, their families, and I love the partnerships I’ve made with my colleagues and the wonderful team here.

Hi, my name is Debbie and I have been working at Thistle Hill since 2020 and started as a part-time admin assistant which I loved, however, the chance to become an administrator has recently arisen and I was appointed and started this position which is full-time in June. I am really enjoying my new position.

I like to spend my spare time with my family I have two grown-up daughters both of whom are nurses.

One of my daughters works here at Thistle Hill. I am a proud grandmother to two lovely granddaughters who are nine and two.

I like to travel when this is permitted and love Corfu in Greece where I have been on holiday for 15 years. I recently went to Las Vegas with my younger daughter, where we spent time exploring, and visited the Grand Canyon via helicopter flying over the Hoover Dam.

Joe is our wonderful in-house Physiotherapist at Thistle Hill Care Home. Joe is a very popular member of the team and residents love him. Joe is not only busy at work, he has a very busy time at home with two little ones - a boy and a girl, who he is so proud of. When he gets a minute to himself, Joe chills out by watching the football and playing football. Joe likes to do a bit of running and plays the piano.

I love to get to know our residents, creating wonderful, wholesome dishes for them to enjoy. Understanding their individual nutrition and dietary needs is very important, and we take great pride in knowing the food we serve helps to improve residents' well-being here at the home.

Stephen is responsible for maintaining the environment and equipment within Thistle Hill, thereby ensuring the comfort, safety and well-being of our residents.

My name is Amber Newband, and I’m excited to be joining Thistle Hill as the new Activities Lead. I previously worked as a teacher’s assistant at a local school, where I gained experience supporting learning and engaging with Children.
I’m looking forward to bringing that passion into my work here and creating meaningful, enjoyable activities for everyone.

In my spare time, I enjoy working in my art studio and painting with watercolours.

I’m really looking forward to getting to know and working with the residents and families. If you see me around, please feel free to say hello!

Hi, my name is Rebecca, and I am the Admin Assistant here at Thistle Hill Care Home. I joined the team in 2026, previously working in care for the last 20 years. Joined the team to support with all aspects of the administration of the home to ensure it runs smoothly.

Providing excellent customer service is something I thrive on, going above and beyond for relatives and their families.

In my spare time, I spend time with my 5 grandchildren and love horse riding.

My name is Jean, and I have lived at Thistle Hill since 2014. The carers are so good to me, and they feel like a second family.

The care team are always there for me, and no ask for help is ever too big or small.

I take great pride in being the Resident Ambassador. Every day I like to say good morning to everyone and make everybody a cup of tea or coffee.

I really enjoy helping in the office and welcoming guests as they come into the reception.