Mar 2021
Our new Home Manager
Mandy tells us all about her new role at Goodson Lodge and her plans for the future
“My vision for Goodson Lodge is to be number one in dementia care, to continue with our exemplary approach to care and ensure that everyone who lives or works here enjoys the feeling of family that we strive to create.”
Mandy Palfrey became Goodson Lodge’s new Home Manager in February. Keen to take on new challenges, Mandy moved from her previous role as Home Manager at Coombe End Court to the 64-bed care home in Trowbridge, where half of the rooms are for residents living with dementia.
Mandy, who has worked at five other Trust care homes and received the OSJCT Leader of the Year 2018 Award, said: “I am delighted to be taking on this role. I’ve had a wonderful time at other homes. Goodson Lodge is one of OSJCT’s flagship homes and I’m excited to help the home to grow and welcome new residents, consolidate the strengths in our team, and extend our links with the community, ensuring that our residents have the best experience and feel fully at home.
She continues: “I see my role as supporting the fantastic team here, working closely with our Deputy Manager, Head of Dementia Care and management team, overseeing compliance, and reaching out to our stakeholders in the community. Another key part of my role is walking around to meet residents, enjoying the home that is theirs, and connecting with relatives.”
Mandy joined the care sector aged 18 and worked for private care companies before joining OSJCT in 2008, firstly at Marden Court, Calne, the home where her mum had worked several years previously. Mandy, who has two daughters and one son, waited for them to settle at school, before focusing on her career path, taking on more responsibility and training for senior positions.
Within three years Mandy had completed her Level 3 in Health and Social Care and took on a role as Care Leader, and then Head of Care at Brookside in Melksham. Mandy was encouraged by her manager to study for the Level 5 in Health and Social Care. With this qualification, Mandy was ready for a Home Manager role. After some months as Head of Care at Coombe End Court she moved to Ridgeway House, in Royal Wootton Bassett, to be Acting and then permanent Home Manager for the next two years. Mandy also spent time as Home Manager at Athelstan House and Coombe End Court before her latest move to Goodson Lodge.
Goodson Lodge is an active part of the local Trowbridge community and Mandy is committed to developing these links, ensuring that residents feel part of it. As Home Manager this involves staying in touch with schools, clubs, the mobile library, solicitors, churches and other groups.