Ashlands Manor Care Centre

Hello, my name is Octavia, and I’m delighted to introduce myself as the newly promoted Home Manager at Ashlands Manor Care Centre. I began my journey in healthcare back in 2000 as a student nurse, and since qualifying, I’ve had the opportunity to work in a variety of clinical settings, including Intensive Care, medical and surgical wards, primary care, and corporate health. Six years ago, I moved into health and social care—and I haven’t looked back since. Working in a care home environment has been incredibly rewarding, and it’s where I’ve truly found my passion. I have a strong interest in end-of-life care and dementia support, and I find deep fulfilment in helping residents live with dignity, comfort, and connection. Before joining New Care, I held roles as a Unit Manager and also acted as Deputy Manager, which gave me valuable experience in leading care teams and maintaining high-quality care standards. When I discovered New Care, I immediately felt aligned with their values and vision. Their commitment to person-centred care, delivered in beautifully designed and engaging environments, is something I’m proud to be part of. Ashlands Manor is a truly special place, and I feel honoured to lead such a dedicated and compassionate team. In my new role as Home Manager, I remain committed to supporting both residents and staff, fostering a culture of respect, kindness, and excellence. I look forward to continuing this journey and ensuring that Ashlands remains a place our residents are proud to call home.

I began working within the care industry when I was 18. I started off as a care assistant in a residential care home after looking after my mum. Over the years I have progressed up to team leader, in home trainer and now working as the head of residential care here at Ashlands. During this time, I have worked with a variety of people from all walks of life. Developing my skills along the way. I have a particular passion for dementia and person-centred care. I particularly enjoy my Job here at Ashland's as it allows me to bring together the skills I have learnt while continuing to develop and provide person centred care to our residents.

I joined Newcare in November 2021 as a Team Leader and have worked in the care sector over 15 years in various roles starting as a bank care assistant and moving up to Deputy Manager in my previous job. I am passionate about providing person centred care to the residents we support. My greatest reward in care is working with people living with Dementia. I love working in care as it is fulfilling in making a difference in the residents’ lives, we support and to ensure that they are happy and cared for. I hold a Level 3 in Health and Social Care and a NVQ Level 4 Diploma in Leadership and Management. Since joining Newcare it was evident that the company put the residents first as stated in its Philosophy and vision. I am happy to be a part of Ashlands team and will continue to ensure our residents are cared for to the high standard whilst upholding the company's values.

I am relatively new to care, with this being my first job within the sector, having worked in the Hospitality and Leisure industry for the last ten years, and gaining my degree in Events Management and Marketing, then working in management at various pubs, restaurants, golf clubs and arenas along the way. I ultimately had a real desire to work within the healthcare sector and was very keen to bring my wide knowledge and experience from my previous roles into this job. I love my job and being able to create a lasting impact on people and being able to make some fantastic new memories with our precious residents and reminisce on the old ones too.