Ashlands Manor Care Home

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’ve been working in the healthcare sector since 2002, beginning my career as a healthcare assistant. After qualifying as a nurse, I gained extensive experience in the NHS, working in surgical wards and intensive care units, where I developed strong clinical skills and a deep understanding of patient care. For 5 years, I balanced working part-time in health and social care alongside my NHS role, allowing me to broaden my expertise in supporting individuals with complex needs. I eventually transitioned permanently into health and social care, taking on a leadership role as a unit manager. In this role, I was dedicated to delivering high-quality standards of care, promoting a person-centred approach, managing staff, ensuring compliance with best practices and regulatory requirements, and continuously striving to enhance service quality and improve outcomes for residents. I have a great passion for dementia care and end of life, ensuring that individuals receive compassionate, dignified and personalised support during their most vulnerable stages in life.

In my spare time, I enjoy spending quality time with my family, shopping, and taking part in sports and outdoor activities.

I began working within the care industry when I was 18. I started as a care assistant in a residential care home after looking after my mum. Over the years, I have progressed up to team leader, home trainer, and now work 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 for 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 an 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 Ashland's team and will continue to ensure our residents are cared for to the high standard whilst upholding the company's values.

I recently moved from New Zealand, where I worked as a physiotherapist in hospital settings, assessing and supporting people to regain independence and live safe, fulfilling lives. I’ve always had a passion for movement and purposeful activity, and I’m dedicated to helping older people maintain their independence and quality of life. I’m especially committed to providing person-centred care through the activities I plan, ensuring each resident feels valued, included, and supported.

Although this is my first role in the care sector, I’ve been warmly welcomed by the wonderful team and the lovely residents at Ashlands. I truly enjoy hearing their stories, helping them achieve their goals, and bringing joy to each day.