Celebration marks carer’s 30 years of helping others
STAFF at Hafod Care’s Brocastle Care Home near Bridgend surprised a devoted colleague who has achieved a remarkable 30 years working in the care sector.
General manager Linda Jenkins started her career in care in 1987 and has experienced almost all roles required in the profession including domestic cook, care assistant and care coordinator before taking up positions in management.
Her dedication and passion for looking after people has seen her take on each of her roles with determination and compassion which has led her to where she is today, with the company saying she embraces the Hafod vision of ‘Making Lives Better’.
Speaking at the surprise presentation, Linda said how she has taken every opportunity that has come her way, which has helped her to gain a huge amount of experience and knowledge.
She said: “Working in a variety of job roles at different locations was a great experience, the best way to learn and I was able to meet lots of new people.
“I’m proud of all the staff as every one of them does a tremendous job; it really is a team effort with staff inspiring one another and creating a pleasant environment for everyone.
“Working in care is a massive responsibility, which can be challenging at times, but it is also extremely rewarding.
“To do this job it’s important to want to make a difference to people’s lives but to also have a sense of fun to overcome the difficult times.”
Linda also extended her gratitude to Hafod for being an organisation which has committed managers who value staff and the hard work that they do.
Talking about her career, she said: “It doesn’t feel like 30 years; it was the best thing I ever did.”
During the celebration, staff shared stories about working with Linda and the developments in care they have witnessed over the years.
Colleague and deputy manager of Brocastle Care Home, Marc Pullen James, said: “Linda is an inspirational manager and leader, someone who is innately thorough and will always do her level best to support and guide the whole team.
“She is empathetic and caring to service users, relatives and staff.
“Linda is trustworthy and confidential and believes in honesty – she is a true professional.”