Valerie Ward is the Manager at Fernwood, Exemplar Health Care’s newest complex care service in Knowsley.
In this blog, we talk to Valerie about what it’s like to work at Fernwood and what sets the home apart from other care homes.
What drew you to Exemplar Health Care?
"I was initially attracted to Exemplar Health Care by the values. The values are fun, integrity, responsive, success and teamwork - they’re really embraced by the entire company.
"As well as the values, the mission is to make every day better for our service users and colleagues.
"I was also impressed by the network of support for the homes. The teams at Central Services enables people to access holistic care and a range of services in their home."
What inspired you to work in care?
"Providing the highest level of care is my passion.
"My entire career has been in the nursing field, working across various roles in the NHS and private sector. In my last role, I frequently went into care homes to deliver training.
"I wanted to utilise the skills I have developed throughout my career and make a difference by working in a care home."
What do you think will set Fernwood apart from other care homes?
"Fernwood is a beautiful home. We’ve just completed an extensive refurbishment throughout the building and the facilities we have at our disposal are excellent.
"Working in a state-of-the-art building means we can provide the best care to our service users, to enable them to reach their full potential.
"As well as the wonderful surroundings, we encourage staff to develop, if they wish. There are lots of opportunities to develop your skills and knowledge and progress in your career at Exemplar Health Care.
"With over 50 complex care services across England, and we’re growing, there’s diversity in what you can do and where you can progress."
What would you say to people thinking about applying for a role at Fernwood?
"Working with us will give you a tremendous sense of achievement and pride – you’ll be making a real difference each and every day.
"We’re building a team of people who believe in the same goal of promoting the values – fun, integrity, responsive, success and teamwork!
"The reputation that Exemplar Health Care has earned as one of the country’s leading complex care providers is all thanks to our talented and passionate colleagues.
"If this sounds like you, come along to talk to us. You’ll get a feel of what we are about and if you think you have the skills and passion to deliver great care, we’d love for you to join us."
What do you have planned for the first six months at Fernwood?
"Our three goals are:
• To get our service users settled into their new homes.
• To build a passionate team, including the Nursing and Care teams, Administration, Domestics and Catering to contribute towards growing a positive community environment.
• We want to have local communities involved and will be planning events in the home."
To apply for a job at Fernwood, visit our online job search to see our current vacancies.
Explore over 50 care homes across England, supporting adults living with complex needs.
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