Our staff – Susan

Susan Lightbown is definitely a chip off the old block, having followed in the footsteps of her mum Margaret in becoming a cook at Queen’s Lodge.

Margaret worked at the home for an amazing 22 years before retiring so it is safe to say Susan learned from the best and she is now responsible, for devising and preparing the meals that our residents enjoy so much.

It is a key role as Susan needs to ensure residents are getting nice home-cooked meals that have the right nutritional balance.

Susan started at a local bakery after she left school and initially came to Queen’s Lodge as a cleaner, before following her mum into the kitchen.

After leaving due to childcare issues, the mum-of-five returned in August 2021 and works on a part-time basis, but it is safe to say her working days are busy!

She explains: “It starts with breakfast when residents can choose from something lighter like toast, cereal, or fruit, through to a full cooked breakfast, along with hot and cold drinks.

“This is their home so we want to ensure they can have anything they want, and we will always try to accommodate different tastes.

“We are already working on lunch when breakfast is served, and this generally includes soup as a starter, a main like fresh salmon with vegetables and a dessert.

“And for tea, residents may just want a sandwich, but we also offer something more substantial like cold meats served with chips and a salad, and of course another dessert.

“We also change our menus every five-weeks and bases them on the seasons, so there is always something nice and different for the residents to choose.

“I have always enjoyed cooking and like working at Queen’s Lodge. The staff are nice, and I enjoy chatting to the residents about food or anything else.”

Outside of work, as well as spending quality time with her family, Susan also enjoys martial arts – so there is absolutely no way we would ever criticize her food, not that we would in the first place of course, given how delicious it is!

Why Choose Constantia Healthcare?

Residential & Nursing Care

Providing a homely, safe and secure environment for your loved ones

Respite & Day Care

Looking after your loved ones while you have a well-earned rest and break

Alzheimers & Dementia Care

Specialist care for people with complex needs at Roseleigh in Middlesbrough

Varied Activity Programme

Stimulating body and mind with an ever-changing schedule