Somer Valley House

Rhona has always been someone who helps others, especially being a military wife abroad, supporting families while their loved ones were away on active duty.

Once back in the UK she was offered a carer role. She has worked for some amazing empowering people who bought out the best in her. She has been both a carer and a General Manager achieving level 5 in leadership and management. A kind, open and quirky person.

I take pride in being kind, patient, friendly and understanding. I am passionate about doing the absolute best for our future residents, their families and the entire Somer Valley and Oyster Care home teams.

I have a fun and cheerful personality and am eagerly looking forward to meeting our residents, hearing about their stories and interests and making them feel that Somer Valley House is a home away from home by always providing a welcoming and friendly presence.

As a lifelong resident of Midsomer Norton, I am absolutely thrilled to be part of the Somer Valley house adventure from the very beginning and have excitedly watched the progress of the building every week since the beginning of the year.

Cath is a friendly and approachable front-of-house professional who genuinely enjoys being the first point of contact for residents, families, and visitors. She takes pride in creating a warm, welcoming environment where everyone feels valued and at ease. With a natural ability to connect with people, Cath finds real fulfilment in making a positive difference every day, no matter how small the moment.

She loves being part of a dedicated team that works together to deliver exceptional care to residents, ensuring their experience is always comfortable, respectful, and supportive. Cath understands how important it is for families and visitors to feel reassured and welcomed, and she goes out of her way to offer kindness, empathy, and a friendly smile.

Outside of work, Cath is happily married and a proud mum to her two children—her daughter, a teacher, and her son, an airline pilot. Family is at the heart of everything she does, and that same sense of care and commitment shines through in her role every day.

Born and raised in Somerset, Bruce began his career in horticulture after training at Radstock Tech and Cannington College. Working as a plantsman and landscaper at a local nursery before becoming the Head of Maintenance and Gardener at a 54-bed hotel.

In the mid-1980s, his career took a different direction when he decided to pursue a career as an HGV driver. Spending 30 years driving across the UK, Europe, and Africa, before a health scare in 2020 led me back to my roots in gardening and maintenance at a care home in Bath.

He lives locally with his partner, Vicky, and can often be found pottering in the garden at home or entertaining his six grandchildren. He is a National Trust members and love spending time exploring the local sites on leisurely strolls.

Born in South America and raised in Bradford-on-Avon, Laura Hewat brings a unique blend of creativity and passion to her role as Head Chef at Somer Valley House.

Originally a Fine Art Sculpture graduate from the London School of Arts, Laura ran her own plastering and decorating business, Nice Finish, for over a decade before retraining as a chef. Her culinary journey includes roles at renowned establishments such as Babington House and Ston Easton Park, with a specialisation in viennoiserie, pastry, and artisan chocolate making.

Inspired by her experiences in North and South America, Laura infuses her cooking with creativity and care. Having started her career in the care sector at The Mineral Bath, she is dedicated to providing high-quality, nourishing meals while fostering a positive, welcoming kitchen environment.

Laura is excited to make every meal at Somer Valley House a moment of joy for residents and staff alike.