Meet the Hyacinth House Care Home Team

Our staff are what hold the home together. Each one of these team members are dedicated to providing high quality care and services to those we support, and ensuring that residents enjoy all aspects of life at our home. See below to meet some of our friendly faces:

Kamila Gagala

General Manager

Hello, my name is Kamila and I am the General Manager here at Hyacinth House, welcome to our website. 

I've been working in Health and Social Care Sector for the past 18 years. After finishing my higher education in Poland, I was looking for a new adventure and wanted to learn a new language and culture. I felt England was the perfect place to do just that. I feel privileged to be in a job I feel passionate about. I am grateful that my passions have been rewarded with a fulfilling career.

Myself and the amazing team will continue to deliver outstanding care to all our residents, their families and friends. I always strive to make a difference in people’s lives and find it rewarding when I help somebody to live their life to the fullest. For me, this is what working in care has always been about, and I know that I can continue delivering this mission with the support of my wonderful colleagues at Hyacinth House.

Hyacinth House has been extensively refurbished with premium facilities and beautifully designed furnishings, we are very proud of our home and look forward to giving you a warm welcome.

Janet Lopez

Deputy Manager

My name is Janet and I am the Deputy Manager at Hyacinth House.

I was a Nurse in the Philippines and have experience in management at a hospital level before moving to the UK in 2006. I have been in the health and social care sector for 21 years. My passion in Care was recognised when I was nominated for the National Care Awards 2014 in the UK where I reached the Top 5 in the Care Managers Category. I aim to bring and share these qualities with the Hyacinth Team to deliver a high quality care.

I am passionate and hard-working who prioritises the safety of our Residents. I will be working closely with the General Manager and the rest of the team to help maintain and improve standards across the home to ensure the best possible care is delivered. I take pride on what I do and help support vulnerable adults establish a safe living environment where independence is promoted.

I am very proud to be part of the Hyacinth Team and we look forward to welcoming you to our new home.

Jane Shanahan

Home Services Advisor

Hello, I'm Jane the Home Services Advisor. 

I'm delighted to be part of the team at Hyacinth House having joined June 2023. I have over a decade of experience and knowledge in Health & Social Care, including the past six years in a similar role. I understand the significance of choosing the right care home and how overwhelming this can be.

From your initial enquiry, I am here to guide and support you through this journey. I am committed to making this process as seamless and stress-free as possible for you and your loved ones. 

I enjoy spending time listening to resident's stories and finding out what is important to them and their families. It's a privilege to be able work in their home and be part of making new memories.

I am excited to start building strong links with the communities, benefitting our residents , local community and businesses. 

If you have any questions about Hyacinth House and would like to visit, please get in touch. I look forward to welcoming you to our lovely home.

Liana Mace

Administrator (Maternity Leave)

Hello, my name is Liana and I am the Administrator at Hyacinth House. 

Having worked within an administration and accounts setting in recruitment for the past 6 years, I sought a new challenge and a chance to be part of a team making a difference.

I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to work in our wonderful residents home, where I get to personally meet the residents loved ones and become part of their extended family, sharing all the good times to come.

Administration is the hub of our home and I am proud to provide support to the whole Hyacinth team. 

My door is always open and I look forward to meeting you! 

Jazdia Wallington

Administrator (Maternity Cover)

Hi I’m Jaz, I've recently moved in to the Administrator role as maternity cover, from the Administration assistant role, I joined the team in November 2023 after really wanting a new challenge in a fulfilling role.

After spending the last 5 years in car sales, Hyacinth is a welcomed change for me and it’s been great getting to know our lovely residents and guests to the home.  

I will be at the reception desk ready to welcome you into our wonderful home with a smile and a cup of tea!

Tammy Carpenter

Activities Coordinator

Hello, my name is Tammy, I am the Activities coordinator. I joined Hyacinth House as one of the Night Seniors, I am so happy and proud to be part of the Hyacinth team.  All my colleagues are so passionate about our journey together and what we are doing, we all share the Barchester values and keep them at the forefront of our minds.

My journey into the Care Sector started more than 6 years ago, initially working as Agency to see if I was the right fit for care work. I instantly fell in love with all aspects of care and getting the chance to work in difference places, gaining experience and knowledge, working and caring for a variety of people in their homes and in a residential/dementia care setting.  I've learnt so much and I completed my NVQ Level 3  and continue to pursue further qualifications.

I enjoy getting to know our residents, learning about them as an individual; their likes, dislikes, and their lives outside the home.  I am very passionate about improving the lives of those I support and the importance of continuing their interests.

In my personal life I am very active, with family life and with two Cocker Spaniels, there is never a dull moment. With a passion for adventure and hiking, with water sports thrown in and always up for trying something new.  Also a keen photographer, I enjoy getting my camera out to capture moments.

I look forward to welcoming you at Hyacinth, and capturing the moments we create together.

Anamaria Busco

Head Housekeeper

Hello, my name is Anamaria and I am the Head Housekeeper here at Hyacinth House.

The Housekeeping team and I strive to deliver and maintain the highest level of cleanliness and standards throughout our home each and every day.  

Hannah Iles

Admin Assistant/Receptionist

Hi, my name is Hannah and I am an administrative assistant.. I am returning to work after maternity leave and couldn’t think of a nicer place to come back too. I have come from a caring background so this is an exciting role for me. Looking after people has always been a natural thing for me. I am thrilled to be working for Barchester Healthcare and supporting the team at Hyacinth House.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time at home with my 3 children and bouncy cockapoo! Family time is important to me so coming to Hyacinth House where I get to see and chat to all the lovely residents, feels like a second home and a special place to be. I love working with people and look forward to giving you a warm welcome at reception.

Eveline Stimpson

Resident Ambassador

Eveline was the very first resident into Hyacinth House the day it opened its doors and she has loved it ever since. She has taken on the role with a smile and great pride. Eveline said " My home is just beautiful. The Care is wonderful and the food amazing. There is a variety of activities every day. As the homes ambassador I will do my best and really enjoy welcoming new people in with open arms" 

Katy Gannon

Senior Carer/Speak Up Champion

Hello, My name is Katy I am a day Senior Carer and Speak Up Champion here at Hyacinth House.

I have worked in the health and social care sector for 30 years specialising in clinical nursing for end of life care for the elderly, caring for people with a range of different medical conditions. Over the years I have gained my NVQ qualifications levels 2, 3 and 4 Registered Managers award and look forward to learning and studying more in the future.

I am passionate about what I do delivering excellent quality person centred care, I am lucky to have a career that I love so much.  I am proud to be part of a fantastic team that go above and beyond to provide the best possible outcomes for our residents. I feel privileged to be part of Barchester working as a whole team approach promoting our core values.

I live in the local area of Ringwood and enjoy spending time with my family going out for forest walks and paddle boarding at the beach.

Emily Price

Senior Carer

Hello, my name is Emily and I am a Night Senior Carer here at Hyacinth House. I have worked in Health and Social care since leaving University 6 years ago. I am passionate about providing high quality person centred care for those living at Hyacinth house. I have an NVQ level 3 in Health and Social care and am aiming to complete my level 4 in the next few years. 

I have personal experience of caring for members of my family and know how important it is to feel your loved ones are safe, cared for and happy. I strive to ensure everyone at Hyacinth house feels completely at home. 

Outside of work, I enjoy baking and Knitting both of which are skills I hope to share with residents of Hyacinth house in the future!

Claire Baltzer

Senior Carer

Hello, my name is Claire. I started my role as night senior carer in December 2023.

I have worked in care for nearly three decades and have an NVQ3 in Adult and Social Care. My career started when I provided respite for vulnerable children ranging from 0–17 years.  As my own children were getting older, I changed direction and worked with adults. I have worked in both nursing and residential care.

 In my spare time, I like to read, bake and swim. I also like walking with my husband and dog Ozzy! Spending time with my children who are now qualified professionals themselves. Plus a little retail therapy, hiking and historical places.

Hyacinth House is such a lovely home.  We have caring staff that show so much empathy to ensure our residents are treated as individuals and are genuinely interested and care about each and everyone of them, always with a smile on their faces

Darcie Freak

Hostess

Hello my name is Darcie, I am one of the hostesses here at Hyacinth House. I joined the team in January 2024 after wanting a fresh start in a brand new career role. I enjoy being around the residents and hearing all the stories they have to tell.

As the hostess I am dedicated to maintaining a positive and outstanding dining experience, that caters to each residents individual needs and wishes. I love being a part of the team at Hyacinth and always pride myself in greeting the residents with a cup of tea, biscuit and a smile.

Abiodun Idowu Benard

Care Assistant

Hello, I'm Ben and joined the Hyacinth team as a Care Assistant in July 2023.

Being at Hyacinth doesn’t feel like work, it has a relaxing and friendly environment. Over the last three years, I worked as a care assistant in different sectors and bringing my skills and experience to this role is very exciting.

Treating residents with respect, empathy, dignity and love, are my contributing factors towards enriching residents lives. 

Ellie Bridgway

Care Assistant

Hello, my name is Ellie, I am a care assistant and joined Barchester in November 2023. 

I have been in care for 4 years and couldn't be happier in the role. My goal every shift is doing the best I can to fulfil the residents days, that can be from a chat over tea and biscuits or helping to go into the community.  Nothing is too big or too small as long as the resident is left smiling and laughing I have done my job right. I do all I can to maintain a healthy lifestyle within the home. 

I am a smiley, happy person who loves a good natter. Recently got a puppy who has been keeping me on my toes and we enjoy exploring the countryside with long walks.

Caroline Katushabe

Care Assistant

Hello, I am Caroline, I take great pride in what we offer here at Hyacinth House and bring all I can to my role. Our team is incredible and we operate as a family, this is what you or your loved one can expect when staying with us.

Amanda Hobbs

Second Chef

With over three decades of experience in the hospitality trade, I bring a wealth of expertise to my role. My culinary journey began at Bournemouth college and my role began as a commis chef and I climbed the ladder in diverse hotels, amassing a comprehensive catering background. After 15 years in the kitchen, I transitioned into hospitality management, finding joy in nurturing and guiding my team while ensuring exceptional customer experiences. After another 15 years in management, I felt the pull back to my culinary roots. Barchester has offered me the support to pursue my passion, and I'm thrilled to welcome residents into our splendid abode.

Outside of work, my interests extend to exploring the world. From trekking along the enchanting landscapes of Dorset to embarking on adventures in far-flung locales like the iconic Taj Mahal and the awe-inspiring wonder that is the Great Wall, my love for travel remains a constant. Additionally, I find solace in creating delectable dishes, a hobby that harmoniously intertwines with my professional journey.

Paula Clarke

Kitchen Assistant

Hello, my name is Paula and I'm a kitchen assistant here at Hyacinth House.

I love helping to create and serve delicious nutritional food to our wonderful residents.

It gives me great pleasure and satisfaction to see them enjoying their dining experience here at Hyacinth House, knowing they are in good company in a beautiful, safe and caring environment.