Willow Gardens welcome their first Apprentice and launch a relatives support network

Anchor’s Willow Gardens care home has been open for almost 3 years and in that time the team have launched a range of initiatives to enhance the home and sense of community residents enjoy.

Recently the home team have been very pleased to welcome their very first apprentice, 16-year-old Rhiannon Martin. Rhiannon is from nearby Sandhurst and has joined the home as an apprentice in conjunction with Babcock training as part of her NVQ 2 in Health and Social Care.

Angela McCormack, Home Manager said: “I am very proud of the achievements of my team here and we all welcome Rhiannon. Earning the NVQ 2 demonstrates commitment to providing a high standard of care for our residents and dedication to the caring profession. Continued learning and development is something we value highly in Anchor and I encourage all my staff to do so.”

Rhiannon said: “I have tried other jobs since leaving Sandhurst Secondary School in May, but think I have found my forte in working with older people. I love making friends with our residents and hearing all about their interesting lives. The staff here are so warm and friendly that any nerves I had disappeared very quickly in the first few days.”

Another new initiative recently set up at Willow Gardens is a Relatives Support Network. Two families whose loved ones moved in when the Willow Gardens first opened have got together to create a support group for new relatives who may need someone to talk to. Their first meeting will be held in the bar of Hampshire Lakes retirement village on Wednesday 21 November. If any prospective relatives wish to come along, organisers Sarah and Sheridan would be happy to share their experiences with you. 

For more information on Willow Gardens or either of these initiatives please call 01252 864726.