We speak to Ruth Garnham, general manager at Athena Care Homes’ Avocet Court in Ipswich.

Why did you join the social care sector?

The home had newly opened when I joined as a housekeeper. I thought I might have wanted to be a nurse and had worked for a while at Ipswich Hospital, but loved working at Avocet Court from day one, went on to have my family and my career path changed. I have now worked at Avocet Court for 30 years. It was never my goal to go into management but over the years I have taken on a number of roles – housekeeping supervisor, admin assistant and hospitality manager before becoming deputy manager, home manager and starting my current role as general manager in 2021.

What do you enjoy most about your job?

It’s very rewarding, every day is different, it is never repetitive and certainly never dull. There is always something new to learn, new people to care for and families to get to know. I have a fabulous team here at Avocet – like one big extended family.

Who is your social care hero and why?

My old boss Claudette, who was the home manager not long after I started work. She qualified as a nurse later in life and on her first day as a home manager the CQC turned up to carry out an inspection. It was Claudette who pushed me to develop and go into management. I interviewed successfully for the deputy manager role with her support, at a time when most deputies were nurses and I wasn’t. She knew everything about everything, and we are still in touch today.

What is the one thing you would change about social care? 

I would definitely change the funding – it’s just not enough. Social care seems to get forgotten whatever government is in power. I’m not particularly optimistic any change of government will make a big difference.

What, in your opinion, makes a great care worker?

They have to care. It doesn’t matter too much about levels of qualifications or education; they just have to have that genuine nurturing side. I have seen some great carers during my 30 years here at Avocet Court and I am extremely proud of the team I have here now.

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

I go and be Nanny for a while, and spend some time with the grandchildren. One is six and the babies are nine months and eight months. Or I would take the dog for a walk – those things keep me grounded.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Be true to yourself and make sure you follow your dreams – don’t take any bad advice or criticism from anyone.

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

I would pick three very straight talking and funny people – Kathy Burke and Johnny Vegas who are both hilarious. My third would be Miriam Margoyles – I’m just reading her book which is laugh out loud funny.

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

I would need music so something to play my favourites on. I like everything from R’n’B to rock music depending on my mood. I’d take my dog – Bijon Fris Pixie – who is very good company. Then my family but only if the whole immediate family counts as one item!

What’s your secret talent?

I make a mean rabbit shaped pancake with fruit decorations for the grandchildren.