Interview with Jemma Bowden, Manager at Peninsula Care Homes

Q: What do you find most rewarding about caring for older people?

A: It’s an honour to support someone through the last part of their journey. Every person has unique stories and experiences, and person-centered care allows us to celebrate that individuality. For families, moving into care isn’t the end, it’s a new beginning. Many tell us they “get their mum back” because they can return to being a daughter or spouse while we handle the care. Residents often become part of our extended family, and while losing someone is always sad, it’s comforting to know we’ve given them dignity and quality of life.

Q: Why is person-centered care so important at Peninsula Care Homes?

A: Because every person and family is unique. We tailor care to each individual, and that shines through in feedback. Reviews on carehomes.co.uk often mention how personal and attentive our approach is. Families feel heard and supported, which motivates our team to keep delivering excellence.

Q: What culture do you strive to create at Coppelia House?

A: A home-from-home environment. Care homes are often seen as institutional, but we want residents, families, and staff to feel comfortable and valued. Each of our five homes has its own personality, but together we’re like a big family.

Q: How do you build confidence with families?

A: Confidence and communication are key. Families often say, “We wish we did this sooner.” We take away the stress of care so they can return to being loved ones, not caregivers. We involve families in decisions and listen to their insights, especially for residents with advanced dementia.

Q: What inspired you to pursue a career in care?

A: I started straight from school. My mum was a care assistant, and my aunt is a nurse, so caring runs in the family. I’ve always felt drawn to it. Over the years, I’ve worked in hospitals and done bank work, but those experiences reinforced that my heart belongs in residential care, especially caring for the elderly.

Q: How did you first start working with Peninsula Care Homes?

A: Louise has owned the business for over 20 years, and I had previously worked for her before taking time off to raise my two boys, now aged 21 and 19. During that time, my eldest was diagnosed with leukaemia, so I needed a few years away from work. My mum also worked for Peninsula Care Homes for 25 years as an Activities and Wellbeing Coordinator. When I returned, I started as a care assistant, even though I had senior care experience. I worked nights to fit around my children, then progressed to senior carer, lead, deputy manager, and now manager.

Q: What helped you progress into leadership roles?

A: Passion. I care deeply about what we do and the ethos of Peninsula Care Homes. Having worked in every position, from care assistant to manager, I understand the challenges staff face. That experience helps me mentor and support my team effectively. I know what it’s like to work on a busy floor and deal with the emotional side of care, so I can empathise and guide them through tough days.

Q: How do you support and develop your team?

A: My leadership style is tailored to the individual. Everyone learns differently, so I focus on mentoring and providing empathy. I’m approachable and ensure staff feel comfortable asking questions. Training and tools like Radar Healthcare help us maintain high standards and accountability. My vision is simple: person-centered care for residents and personalised support for staff.

Q: How does Radar Healthcare support your work?

A: Documentation is crucial in care, if it’s not written down, it didn’t happen. Radar Healthcare makes compliance and auditing easier, and CQC inspectors were impressed with how we use it. It keeps everything in one place, from infection control to wound management, ensuring timely follow-ups and accountability.

Q: What makes you proud when you look back on your journey?

A: Moving up within the same company and becoming a manager. I never imagined I’d be in this role, but hard work and passion pay off. I’m also proud of taking the leap to a new home when I thought I’d never leave my previous one. The team at Peninsula Care Homes has been loyal to me, and I’m committed to developing others in the same way.