Alice Boothroyd

From Care Assistant to Award-Winning Team Leader: Alice’s Inspiring Career in Care

When Alice Boothroyd walked into her interview for a Care Assistant role at Anavo’s Surbitonian Gardens, she didn’t know she was about to find her a new purpose in life. In fact, she came from a different line of work, but what she did have was compassion, empathy and a lifetime of looking after others. These qualities can’t be taught but make all the difference in a role as a Care Assistant.

Fast-forward a year, and Alice has gone from a Care Assistant to an award-winning Team Leader, recognised for her dedication and the joy she brings to residents every day. From arranging surprise days out, to simply making sure someone’s tea is just how they like it, Alice has built a career where her natural kindness shines and where she’s found real purpose

We sat down with Alice to hear more about her journey into care, what makes her love her job, and the small moments that make a big difference.

Tell us a bit about your background, how did you find your way into care?

It’s funny because I’d never actually worked in a care home before joining, but looking back, everything I’ve done has led me here. I’ve always looked after people, I’ve cared for my mum since I was about five years old, and when I was a teenager, I turned the ground floor of our home into a crèche for children with additional needs. I looked after 17 families over the years, giving parents much-needed breaks.

After that, I worked for a children’s charity, but I wanted to do something more hands-on. One day, I came across the Care Assistant role online for Surbitonian Gardens and thought, why not? I went for it, and honestly, it’s the best decision I’ve ever made.

What was your first impression when you started working in care?

When I came for my interview, I arrived early and had to wait downstairs, just watching the residents go by. I met one of them, John, and he just stole my heart. I knew I was in the right place.

Since that day, I’ve never looked back. I live across the road, and even on my days off, I pop in for a coffee with the residents. It’s become a big part of my life.

What does a typical day look like for you?

No two days are the same, and that’s what I love about it. I started as a Care Assistant and recently became a Team Leader. It’s busy, from helping residents with personal care to making sure their days are full of laughter, helping them eat their food, enjoying the activities that we put on for them and importantly making sure that they are happy.

Even when everything’s “done,” I don’t sit still. I’ll tidy drawers with a resident, help them choose an outfit, or just sit and chat. It’s about making them feel at home.

You clearly have a lot of heart for the people you care for. What moments make you proudest?

It’s the small things that end up being the big things in this role. Recently, one resident, Paul, came to us for end-of-life care. He loved hymns and guitar music, so I brought in my Alexa so he could listen to his favourite songs. His wife later thanked me and told me he passed peacefully, listening to the music he loved. That meant everything.

It is also the little gestures like remembering someone’s favourite drink, bringing them a snack from the shop, or cooling them down with frozen flannels on a hot day, that makes all the difference.

And tell us about the Big Brother wish, what happened there?

Ah, that was with Teresa! She’s 68 and lives with cerebral palsy and is an absolute character with a brilliant sense of humour. She’s obsessed with Big Brother and told me it was her dream to go.

So, I applied for tickets which I was amazed to find out where free and managed to get some. I sorted her transport, planned everything with the team, and helped her get ready. We did her hair, makeup and helped pick out an outfit. It felt like getting ready for a girl’s night out and she just lit up.

When we got there, the presenter made a conscious effort to speak to her at every break and even came over and hugged her. She was glowing. Seeing her so happy was incredible. Those moments remind you why this job is so special.

What do you love most about working at Surbitonian Gardens?

It’s the people; the residents, their families, my colleagues. It really is like a family away from family. The residents here have done so much for our generation; if I can give just a little bit back, I’m happy.

I’m extremely close to my mum, and I treat these residents as if they were my own family. I care for them how I would care for her, with patience, love, and respect. When you spend so much time together, you build real bonds. You get to know their stories, their quirks, what makes them laugh. You become part of their lives, and they become part of yours.

I always tell people; I’ll be working here until I need a room myself! I’ve never been happier in my life.

What would you say to someone thinking about a career in care?

Do it. Even if you’ve never worked in care before, your kindness, empathy, and people skills are what matter most. If you love helping others, it’ll never feel like “just a job.” It’ll become part of who you are.

You build such strong connections, with residents, with families, with your team and that sense of purpose stays with you.

Start Your Career in Care

If Alice’s story has inspired you, why not start your own journey? Whether you’re looking for a new role, a meaningful career, or a place where you can truly make a difference, there’s a role for you at Anavo. Click here to learn more about Surbitonian Gardens and life at Anavo.