Daughter follows in mother’s footsteps and pursues a career in care

Like mother, like daughter. This Mother’s Day we caught up with mother-daughter duo, Penny and Tia Richardson, who both work here at Anchor.  

Penny Richardson started her career in social care 20 years ago when her daughter Tia was 16 months old. She had previously worked in human resources but wanted a meaningful change after having two children. She applied to work with us and has been here ever since, currently as Scheme Manager for Heron Flight Avenue, Swallow Walk and Eagle Close retirement communities in Essex. 

Inspired by her mother’s success in her career and love for her work making a difference to others, four years ago Tia finished college and decided to follow in her mother’s footsteps by taking a role in one of our extra-care housing estates. Tia now works as Estate Manager at Darcy House extra care housing scheme in Dagenham. 

Tia has fond memories of the role her mum’s work played in her childhood and recognises how it has helped shape her into the adult she has become.

When my brother and I were younger, we visited mum’s estate regularly and spent time with the residents. We were brought up with a close connection to housing for older people and it just went from there. 

Penny has really seen Tia flourish since she started working with us and hopes her daughter can act as a role model for other people looking to start their career. She said:

It’s really nice that a younger person like Tia can work in our environment and I am hopeful that she can inspire other people to join too.

Both women are passionate about their work supporting people in later life and plan to continue advancing their careers in social care. If you know someone who would thrive working in social care, check out our latest vacancies here.