Getting used to new surroundings is not something which new Middlesbrough Grange Care Home Manager Amanda Richardson needs to worry about.
That’s because Amanda has already been Manager here, 12 years ago!
Having worked in care for over 30 years, Amanda was on a sabbatical looking after her parents who both required support when she heard we were looking for a new Manager.
She applied and was successful, taking up her new (old) post in May 2024.
Apart from the décor, Amanda says not much has changed in the last 12 months, which she believes is a good thing.
“There are still quite a few staff here from when I was Manager first-time around and I had a really good relationship with them so that has made settling in so much easier,” she explains.
“And the fact we have such a long-serving staff team demonstrates it is a good place in which to work and this benefits the residents because they get the continuity of care as well.”
Amanda’s career in care began aged 18 when she working as a laundry assistant in a nursing home.
She soon became a carer and keen to progress her career, this then led to roles as senior carer, deputy manager, manager, regional manager, and regional director.
“I have always had a real fire in my belly when it comes to my career and making a difference,” Amanda says.
““I have always taken so much pride in looking after residents and making sure they are happy and live a fulfilled life in their later years,
“The people we look after are the important, but having happy, motivated staff is also important because the two go hand in hand.
“It’s great to be back and I am enjoying working with my Deputy Manager Hannah, who is a registered Nurse so it’s great to have that clinical expertise too.”
Outside of work, married mum-of-three Amanda enjoys spending time with her family, including her four grandchildren, and indulging her love of gardening.
