Meet the Iris Court Care Home Team

Hi, my name is Tash and I am the deputy manager here at Iris Court. Whilst I am fairly new to Barchester Health care I have worked in the care sector for over 14 years. I started as a carer many years ago and fell in love with the industry. I also studied in the industry and a very proud day for me was my graduation from the University of Coventry where I achieved a BA with honours in social care and health studies. This gave me a great platform to advance my career in the care sector.

During my time as a carer I loved nothing more than sitting with my residents and chatting to them about their lives. I always found it so fascinating to hear their stories regarding the kind of life they led, families they had and historic chapters of world history that they lived through. I would always balance the needs of each resident with a level of independence for them as well, as I know how important it is that every individual gets to live life the way that they want to.

As a very successful carer I found myself climbing the ladder to become a senior carer and this was an amazing feeling for me. This also allowed me to lead and inspire others to provide the type of care I knew would enrich the lives of the residents who we cared for. I had the privilege to lead some great teams and the homes that I ran always achieved positive results in CQC audits. This was mainly due to the fact that I wanted to make sure that every member of my team was focussed on their residents and made every day as positive as it could be.

Outside of my work I am married and am incredibly dedicated to family life. We spend a lot of time together socialising and enjoying family get together. When I have time set just for me there is nothing more that i like than a bit of retail therapy and I can escape into a day that's all for me. 

I am incredibly proud to be part of the opening of Iris court and I can honestly say that this is the most beautiful environment I have ever worked in. I cannot wait to start our journey with our residents and providing our excellent person centred care to enrich every day of their lives.

Hello, I'm Trudi Arnold, and I'm honoured to serve as the Home Administrator at Iris Court. While I'm new to Barchester, my journey in the realm of care has been a rich tapestry of experiences. Previously, I've dedicated myself as a Senior Care Assistant in a Dementia Unit and as an Administrator in Mental Health Nursing Homes, equipping me with a deep understanding of the needs and nuances of compassionate care.

Outside of work, my heart belongs to my cherished family. With 35 years of marriage under my belt, my husband and I are proud parents to two wonderful daughters and doting grandparents to two grandchildren. Family gatherings are a cornerstone of my life; I find immense joy in connecting with my siblings, nieces, nephews, and their growing families.

In my downtime, you'll often find me exploring new destinations, lost in the pages of a captivating book, or immersed in the melodies of my favourite music. Above all, I treasure moments spent socialising with loved ones, cherishing each precious memory created. I'm excited to bring my passion for care and my love for building meaningful connections to the warm embrace of Iris Court.

Hello, I'm Natalie, and for nearly five enriching years, I've dedicated myself to the role of an activity coordinator. My passion lies in understanding the unique interests of each individual under our care. At Iris Court, I strive to craft activities tailored to the preferences of our residents, ensuring no one ever feels socially isolated. Whether someone wants to participate minimally or fully immerse themselves, my goal remains constant: fostering a sense of community and joy in every moment.

I eagerly anticipate sharing in the magic moments that weave through everyday life at Iris Court. Families play a vital role in our activities, and I'm thrilled at the prospect of seeing everyone come together. Through meaningful engagement and personalised experiences, I aim to create an environment where residents feel not only supported but truly valued.

Join me as we embark on this journey of connection, laughter, and shared experiences. Together, let's create cherished memories that will illuminate the path ahead. Welcome to Iris Court, where every day holds the promise of something special.

Hi I am Jinesh George, a seasoned professional in the care sector with an impressive 17-year journey dedicated to crafting culinary delights as a Head Chef. With a passion for food that knows no bounds, I find sheer joy in my role, where I seamlessly blends imagination and creativity to tantalise taste buds and bring smiles to faces.

Being a chef is more than just a profession; it's a calling to spread happiness through food. I firmly believe that the right meal has the power to uplift spirits and create unforgettable memories. With each dish we create, I pour my heart and soul into perfecting flavours and presentation, ensuring that every bite is a delightful experience.

Driven by an insatiable ambition to continuously grow and evolve, I am on a quest to expand my culinary repertoire. I thrive on exploring diverse cuisines and mastering various culinary techniques, always eager to learn and refine his skills. From traditional recipes to contemporary culinary trends, I am looking to embrace every opportunity to broaden our culinary horizons.

Beyond the kitchen, I find fulfilment in my role as a devoted husband and father of three beautiful children, cherishing every moment spent with his loved ones. When I’m not busy concocting delicious dishes, I love to indulge in my passion for travel, reading, and cooking. Travelling, in particular, holds a special place in my heart, as it not only exposes me to new experiences but also allows me to immerse himself in diverse cultures, languages, and cuisines.

I have created a team dedicated to culinary excellence and a genuine love for bringing joy to others through food, Both my team and I remain committed to crafting extraordinary dining experiences that leave a lasting impression on all who taste our creations.

Hello! I'm Csaba, Head of Maintenance at Iris Court. With a tenure at Barchester Healthcare since 2021, I bring a wealth of experience to my role. Prior to joining the care sector, I spent many years as a maintenance manager for retail establishments and office blocks.

Transitioning into the care sector was a deliberate choice driven by my desire to work directly with people. Every day, I find immense satisfaction in knowing that I can make a tangible difference to both my colleagues and our residents. It's the personal connections and the impact on their quality of life that truly drive me.

In my role, I strive to ensure that every corner of Iris Court is not just functional but also safe and comfortable for everyone who calls it home. Whether it's fixing a leaky tap or ensuring the heating system runs smoothly, I take pride in my work, knowing that it contributes to the well-being of our residents.

I find the work incredibly rewarding, and seeing the smiles on residents' faces makes all the hard work absolutely worthwhile. I'm committed to maintaining the highest standards of maintenance, ensuring that Iris Court remains a place where everyone feels cared for and supported.

Hello, I'm Julie Wallace, and I'm thrilled to be part of the compassionate team here at Iris Court. With four years of dedicated experience in the care sector, I've found my passion in bringing joy and comfort to the lives of elderly residents.

My journey in caregiving began with disabled adults, where I discovered the profound impact of personalised activities and genuine companionship. Transitioning to working with the elderly felt like coming home; there's something truly special about brightening someone's day with laughter, camaraderie, and engaging activities.

Outside of work, you'll often find me indulging in hobbies like colouring, binge-watching TV shows and movies, immersing myself in a good book, finding peace through yoga, and cherishing moments with my beloved family.

As I embark on my new role as Receptionist, I eagerly anticipate the opportunity to extend a warm welcome to new residents and their families, guiding them through our home and ensuring they feel right at home from the moment they arrive. I'm excited to continue fostering a sense of belonging and community within our care family.

Greetings, I'm Steffy, a dedicated and compassionate healthcare assistant committed to providing exceptional care to the elderly residents at Iris Court. Being part of a supportive team fills me with honour and purpose. I am driven by self-motivation and a strong desire to advance in my career, firmly believing in the power of hard work and its rewarding outcomes. Upholding the highest standards of care is paramount to me, and I am always ready to assist residents in overcoming any challenges they may face.

My educational journey includes a Bachelor of Commerce from India and an MBA from the University of the West of Scotland. Transitioning from the world of retail to the heart warming realm of healthcare has truly transformed my life - it's a perfect fit! I'm genuinely excited to continue evolving and spreading positivity within the healthcare community.

Outside of work, I cherish spending time with loved ones, especially indulging in my passion for cooking and exploring diverse cuisines. In both my personal and professional endeavours, I wholeheartedly commit myself to reaching new heights and making each day meaningful. I eagerly welcome whatever challenges the world may bring, ready to tackle them head-on with determination and resilience.
 

Greetings! I'm Jijo Joseph, originally from India and currently proud to call Luton my home. With three years of dedicated service in the care sector, I bring a unique blend of skills and passion as the Senior Night Shift carer at Iris Court.

My journey into caregiving might seem unconventional, considering my background in business and programming, culminating in a master's degree with distinction from the University of Bedfordshire. However, my heart led me to embrace the care sector wholeheartedly. For me, it's not just a job; it's an opportunity to extend a helping hand to those in need, particularly the vulnerable amongst us.

One of the aspects I cherish most about my role is the opportunity to embody compassion and understanding. I firmly believe that these qualities are paramount for the holistic well-being of every individual under our care. My journey has also honed my interpersonal skills and fostered a spirit of teamwork within me. I thrive in collaborative environments, knowing that together, we can achieve remarkable outcomes.

As a tech-savvy individual, I appreciate the role technology plays in enhancing the quality of care we provide. Outside of work, you'll often find me indulging in my greatest passion: travelling. Exploring new cultures and landscapes fuels my sense of curiosity and adventure. Yet, amidst all the excitement, nothing compares to the warmth of spending quality time with my cherished family and friends.

At Iris Court, I am committed to upholding both personal and professional standards of excellence. As a Senior Carer, I take pride in guiding and inspiring my colleagues to uphold the highest standards of care. Together, we ensure that our residents receive the dignity, respect, and compassion they rightfully deserve.

Thank you for considering Iris Court as your home away from home. I look forward to welcoming you with open arms and providing the care and support you deserve.

Hello, I'm Jack Bicheno, and I'm thrilled to be part of the compassionate team here at Iris Court acre home, Hitchin. Transitioning from my previous role as a bartender at The George pub in Hitchin, I've found my calling in the care sector. As a Host, my joy comes from brightening the days of our residents, staff, and visitors alike.

Outside of work, you'll often find me immersed in the world of rock and metal music, either listening or jamming on my electric and bass guitars. I also have a passion for staying active, whether it's through long runs or exploring the outdoors.

My heritage adds an extra layer of richness to my life. With Persian roots from my mum's side, I've developed a love for Persian cuisine and dream of one day exploring the land of my ancestors.

An intriguing aspect of my background is my late Grandad's involvement with Mi6. Stationed in Buenos Aires, Argentina, before and during the Falklands War, his experiences have left an indelible mark on our family's history.

I look forward to bringing my diverse experiences and warm spirit to enrich the lives of those in our care community.

Hello, I'm Grace OSUNDINA. With over two decades of dedicated caregiving experience, my journey began in 2000 as a domiciliary carer with Enara Community Care on weekends. Transitioning to a different role, I spent 14 years serving the Metropolitan Police, where I rose from a catering assistant to a temporary catering manager overseeing 75 vending machines.

In 2016, I chose to fully commit to caregiving, working as a live-in carer and later joining esteemed organizations like Jewish Care and Barchester Chorleywood's. Throughout my career, I've been committed to providing compassionate support to those in need, from Canterbury to London, and now in Luton.

Originally from Nigeria, I moved to the UK in 1989 to offer my children a better future, eventually becoming a British citizen in 2002. My early years in the UK were spent as a cleaner, balancing work with raising my family.

Today, I take pride in being a grandmother to six grandchildren, and on my days off, you'll find me visiting my children or indulging in Nollywood movies while enjoying homemade Nigerian cuisine. As I embark on this new chapter at Barchester Iris Court, I bring with me a wealth of experience and a genuine passion for caring for others.

Hello, I'm Sneha Harish, and I'm deeply passionate about providing compassionate care to those in need. With two years of experience in nursing, dementia, and residential homes, I've found immense joy in making a difference in people's lives.

Armed with a Level 3 diploma in health and social care, I'm dedicated to delivering top-notch, heartfelt care to individuals who deserve to live fulfilling lives. My cheerful demeanour and positive outlook make me a ray of sunshine in any environment, and I'm committed to spreading positivity wherever I go.

Beyond my professional life, I find solace and expression through my passions for dancing and painting. As a classical dancer, I understand the power of art in enhancing empathy and communication, traits that are invaluable in the care profession.

Back in India, I actively participated in social care clubs, volunteering my time to uplift my community. This experience has further fuelled my desire to make a difference on a larger scale.

Looking to the future, I'm pursuing a degree in finance with the goal of transitioning into management roles within the care sector. I believe that my diverse skill set and unwavering dedication to helping others will enable me to continue making a positive impact in the lives of many.

Join me on this journey as we strive to create a world where everyone receives the care and support they deserve.

Hello I'm Kirsty and I've dedicated nearly two decades to the field of care. With qualifications including NVQ Level 3, Level 3 SOVA Management, and Level 3 Medication, I bring a wealth of experience and expertise to my role. What sets me apart is my genuine passion for both the hands-on care of residents and the meticulous paperwork that ensures their wellbeing.

I firmly believe that a happy staff creates a happy home, and my priority is to foster an environment where both residents and caregivers thrive. At our care home, I strive to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere where residents feel at ease and enjoy their time. Fun and laughter are integral to our ethos, ensuring that every moment spent here is filled with joy and companionship.

Outside of work, you might find me tending to my garden or taking leisurely strolls with my beloved dogs - Hughie, the gentle St Bernard, and Yuki, the spirited Siberian Husky. Travel is another passion of mine, although it's been a while since my last adventure. Nevertheless, I bring the spirit of exploration and discovery into everything I do, enriching the lives of those in my care.

My passion lies in providing person-centred care, ensuring each individual's unique needs are met with empathy and understanding. I find immense fulfilment in accompanying others on their journey through their later years, cherishing every story and memory shared with me.

Recently, I achieved my NVQ Level 3 in adult social care, further enhancing my knowledge and skills to better serve our residents. Beyond the rewarding realm of caregiving, I find solace in the simple joys of life. Whether it's strolling along the seaside with my loyal companion or indulging in the tranquillity of assembling jigsaw puzzles, I relish every moment spent unwinding. Oh, and you might catch me enthusiastically tuning into daytime television, particularly captivated by the heart warming tales of restoration on "The Repair Shop."

I'm thrilled to be part of the Barchester family, dedicated to enriching the lives of those we care for with warmth, respect, and dignity.

Hello and welcome to our care home! I am Andrea, and I'm thrilled to be a part of this esteemed organisation. While my journey in the care sector is relatively new, I come with a wealth of passion and dedication. Before joining this wonderful team, I spent six fulfilling months in domiciliary care.

During my time in domiciliary care, I had the privilege of visiting residents in their homes, promoting independent living, and offering assistance with daily tasks while fostering companionship. What truly draws me to this sector is the opportunity to engage with individuals from diverse backgrounds, hearing their remarkable stories, and sharing heartfelt moments together. Being a pillar of support for our residents is incredibly rewarding, making each day special and meaningful.

Beyond my work, I find joy in outdoor activities like walking and hiking, as well as engaging in games and reading. I believe in living an active and fulfilling life, both inside and outside of our care home.

I look forward to welcoming you and your loved ones into our warm and compassionate community, where care is at the heart of everything we do.

Hello! I'm thrilled to welcome you to our care home. With 17 years of culinary experience across the Care Sector, Restaurants, and Pubs, I bring a passion for crafting delightful meals and fostering a warm, inviting atmosphere. My journey began at catering college, where I earned my NVQ while honing my skills in a nursing home setting. Through an enriching apprenticeship, I immersed myself in competitions, even catching the eye of culinary legend Michael Roux, who graciously endorsed my talents.

Beyond the kitchen, I've embraced diverse roles, from captivating children as an entertainer to orchestrating bingo sessions - a testament to my vibrant spirit. Notably, I savoured the opportunity to train at Jamie Oliver's renowned restaurant in Milton Keynes, enriching my culinary repertoire.

Outside of work, you'll find me indulging in my passions for swimming and socialising, cherishing every moment with friends. My adventurous soul dreams of owning a food truck someday, tantalising taste buds with an array of culinary delights.

Born in Welwyn Village and having explored every corner of this beautiful country, I bring a wealth of experiences to our home. I look forward to sharing my culinary expertise and creating cherished memories with each resident. Welcome to our caring community!