Team Spotlight: Colette at The Abbeys

For Colette, being part of The Abbeys Care Home in Rotherham is an integral part of her life. She joined in 2002, thinking it would be a short work experience before university, but soon realised she had found somewhere that connected to her purpose. More than 20 years later, she is still here, proud to call The Abbeys her home.

She tells us: “It’s not like working in a care home. It’s a community where everybody is there for each other.”

Colette

As a Senior Carer, Colette leads with authenticity and support for her team.

“I might be a senior, but I’ve been in your shoes,” she says. “We are all equal, all one team, here to help each other.”

Her values-led approach centres on getting to know her colleagues as people, harnessing their strengths, curiosity and innovation. For her, delegation is about trust, understanding and encouragement, ensuring everyone feels supported and capable.

Colette also demonstrates the same depth of commitment to her residents. She shares how she has worked closely with one resident who has significant behavioural challenges, building trust over time. Through patience and consistency, Colette has helped this resident feel more settled, proving the power of relationships in delivering meaningful care. This evidence-based approach of documenting improved outcomes is just one reason Colette has continued to progress in her role.

“Treating everyone as an individual is what matters most. We’re here to help people enjoy life to the full.”

At 60, Colette jokes that her training days are over, but her passion for learning never stops. She continues to embrace new skills, insights and practices, always ready to adapt and grow with her team. Her story is one of loyalty, leadership and a real passion for her career. A reminder that one of the most powerful difference comes not from titles or years of service, but from showing up every day for residents and colleagues with kindness and purpose.

Thank you Colette for all you do.