Staff Spotlight: Meet Dahlia – A Heart of Gold at Westgate House

Meet Dahlia, one of Westgate House Care Centre’s dedicated Senior Registered General Nurses. With over 32 years of nursing experience and 19 years of service at Westgate Healthcare, Dahlia brings a wealth of knowledge, compassion and dedication to her role. Humble Beginnings in the Philippines Originally from the Philippines, Dahlia qualified as a Nurse in December 1991 after passing her mandatory board exams. She began her career in 1992 by working in a hospital environment where she gained experience across a variety of departments. These include Accident & Emergency, theatres, surgical and medical wards and children’s wards. This rich and varied foundation shaped her into the well-rounded and knowledgeable Nurse she is today. A Life-Changing Move to the UK After gaining experience in a private healthcare setting in the Philippines, Dahlia took a significant step in her career by moving to the UK in 2004. She began her journey as a Registered General Nurse in a care home based in Cambridge. Later, Dahlia relocated to Hertfordshire, continuing her work in care. In 2006, she crossed paths with Mrs Patel, the owner of Westgate Healthcare and soon began working part-time at Westgate House. Finding a Home at Westgate House Care Centre In 2010, after receiving her indefinite leave to remain, Dahlia transitioned to Westgate House full-time. Dahlia has been an integral part of the team ever since and today, she stands as one of the four Senior RGNs in the home, bringing warmth, wisdom and a wealth of experience to the role. For the past 10 years, Dahlia has been an unwavering presence on the Dementia Unit. Her passion for Dementia care has left an undeniable mark. As Jomol Paul, Head of Clinical Services, beautifully comments: “Dahlia has been especially instrumental in the Primrose Unit, where her passion for Dementia care shines through. Her commitment to improving the quality of life for our residents is evident in everything she does. She ensures the emotional, physical, psychological and social needs of our residents are always met. A natural leader and mentor, Dahlia is a strong team player. She takes pride in guiding and developing others. She has supported and mentored many junior nurses, student nurses and new staff members. Many have progressed into Registered General Nurse roles under her guidance. Known for her high standards and meticulous approach, she ensures every nurse learns “the right way” from the very beginning. Her organisation and hands-on leadership make her a role model throughout the home. There is a deep sense of reassurance, we know the home is in safe, capable hands. Her efficiency, dedication and unwavering professionalism are truly inspiring. Thank you, Dahlia, for your incredible service and the impact you continue to make every day at Westgate House.” Why Westgate is Home “Westgate feels like home,” Dahlia shares. “It’s my comfort zone. I feel settled here and can’t imagine working anywhere else. The policies and procedures make me feel safe, and that means I can focus on what I love - caring for our residents.” Dahlia credits the supportive management team and strong team spirit at Westgate House Care Centre for making her job even more rewarding. She notes that the Home Manager always listens, and staff are encouraged to share their suggestions and ideas. A Family of Nurses When Dahlia isn’t leading with excellence at Westgate House, she takes pride in the fact that her three children have followed in her footsteps. They are all now working as hospital nurses. This is a testament to her influence and the strength of the nursing profession. A Heartfelt Thank You Reflecting on her journey, Dahlia extends a heartfelt thank you to the Patel family: “I am forever grateful to the Patel family for their support and guidance throughout the years. Their belief in me and their dedication to high standards is what makes Westgate Healthcare such a special place to work.” We are incredibly proud to have Dahlia as part of the Westgate family. Her dedication, compassion and leadership continue to uplift everyone around her. Thank you, Dahlia, for everything you do.

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