Luxury care home Signature Senior Lifestyle has appointed Michelle Gray as general manager of Signature at Reigate Grange, which supports up to 95 residents.

Gray takes the helm at the care home where shocking physical and mental abuse of Ann King, an 88-year-old resident, was exposed by The Guardian in October.  

Gray has more than 30 years’ experience in social care and nursing, having worked in the private sector and the NHS, in clinical and management roles. She previously worked for Queen Elizabeth’s Foundation for Disabled People, Kingston Hospital, and Basildon and Thurrock University Hospitals.

The move to Reigate Grange is Gray’s third general manager appointment to a Signature care home.

Gray said: said: “I am delighted to lead a dedicated, talented and passionate team who work tirelessly to build caring relationships in all they do. It is those relationships that underpin all that we do. As a care home, we embrace a number of vital roles. First and foremost, the care we provide to our residents and relatives to ensure they have genuine peace of mind. That will always be the focus of Reigate Grange, helping our residents to live as independently as possible, for as long as possible.

“I am also determined to champion the home’s role within the local community, working with our partner schools, charities, community groups and other local organisations. Our foundations have been built on our position as a community connector, and I recognise the importance of continuing this work as part of a bright future together.

Kay Cox, operating officer, at Signature Senior Lifestyle, said: “We are very pleased to welcome a talented and passionate colleague in Michelle as Reigate Grange’s General Manager. Our family of care homes are built on being positive, delivering support which is truly tailored to the individual, and doing so with energy and a deep-rooted passion for care.

“Michelle’s values dovetail with those exhibited at all our homes, which is to create a sense of happiness by firmly supporting the needs of all our residents and colleagues.”