We speak with Alex Teixeira, home manager at Four Seasons Health Care’s Kingston Care Home in Surrey

Why did you join the social care sector?

Because of my mum. She inspired me to become a nurse and her kindness towards others made me the person I am today. In addition, I felt inspired to pursue management due to my dad. He has worked in management since his early career and his dedication, persistence and resilience when facing problems makes him one of my role models. I joined Brighterkind, part of Four Seasons Health Care Group, in 2014 and worked in Scotland as a registered nurse. I later moved to London and started working at Kingston Care Home, as deputy manager and progressed to be the home manager in 2022.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

Making a difference every day. My door is always open and what makes my day the best is when a relative visits and tells me that their loved one looks so well since they moved into our home, and that the team are doing a great job. I also love seeing the joy on our residents’ faces when they get involved in the activities we arrange as part of our ‘Magic Moments’ programme. Whether it’s an exercise session, a visit from our local school pupils, a trip out and about, or a good old-fashioned singalong on a wet afternoon, getting everyone together for fun and friendship always makes me happy.

Who is your social care hero and why?

I’ve got so many. When I joined Four Seasons, my manager was an inspiration and invested trust in me to develop and become my best. My regional support manager, who supported the blossoming of my management skills and my regional manager who always points me in the right direction. Everyone is a hero in this industry, and I wouldn’t be who I am without the support of everyone who I’ve had the pleasure to work with over the years.

What’s the one thing you would change about social care?

I would change the investment and importance placed on social care. It needs more funding so we can help everyone who needs our support and ensure the ‘golden years’ of our elderly population are lived to the full. With the right levels of care and support in place, every day can be fulfilling.

What in your opinion makes a great care worker?

Someone that takes the time to really get to know their residents so they can deliver truly individual care. They are compassionate, professional, creative, enthusiastic, relish a challenge and are a ray of sunshine who brightens up everyone’s day. They are up to date with all the training provided and support other team members to deliver outstanding care.

What do you do when life all gets a bit too much?

I would enjoy some quality time with my family or go for a walk with my dog. If the weather is awful, we’d cuddle up on the sofa with a nice film and a fleece blanket.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Don’t overthink too much and enjoy the ride. Life can be hard at times, but you will remain resilient after every challenge.

Which three famous people would you have to dinner and why?

I would say Meryl Streep, Nicole Kidman and Jane Fonda. I adore their roles as actresses and we would have fun chatting over dinner.

What three items would you bring with you on a desert island?

A knife, a rope and a flashlight. This would put my survival skills to the test, for sure.

What is your secret talent?

I would say my ability of having conversations in my head in two different languages (I’m Portuguese). I also do my own French manicures, and I can mimic a kitten calling out.