Healthcare Homes has appointed Debbie Wyke as manager at The Malthouse care home in Gillingham, Dorset.

The Malthouse is part of Healthcare Homes’ portfolio of 48 homes and specialises in residential support for the elderly.

Wyke has had a long career in the care sector and has managed care for people with nursing and residential care needs as well as younger people with learning disabilities and challenging behaviour. She joined the team at The Malthouse after managing another care home in the area for 15 years.

Wyke said: “I have never worked in any other sector and had my first job with adults with learning disabilities as a Saturday girl aged just 12. I stayed with that unit for more than 13 years working my way up to unit manager. The care sector is a bit like Marmite really – you either love it or you hate it – there is no middle ground.”

Speaking of the home Wyke added: “People genuinely love the home and many of the team have been here for many years – it’s a wonderful family atmosphere which I have been welcomed into with open arms.  I like to get out on the floor as often as possible and meet the residents and the team. I meet the early birds when I first come in at 7.30 but I am out of the office as often as I can be throughout the day.”