Inside Lancing Beach Care Home: Meet James Fletcher, Activities Coordinator

When James talks about his work at Lancing Beach Care Home, his eyes light up and it’s easy to see why. For James, this isn’t just a job; it’s his something he has committed his life to. From helping children explore their passions to bringing back cherished memories for older adults, James has spent over two decades giving back to others.

Growing up and attending a special needs boarding school in Oxfordshire gave James a deep understanding of how individualised support and compassion can transform lives. “The staff there taught me that every person is different, and that difference is worth celebrating,” says James. “That shaped the way I approach care, always seeing the person first, their story, their joys, their struggles.”

Now, as Activities Coordinator at Lancing Beach, James channels that philosophy into every activity or trip. Whether it’s a beach outing, a memory-inspired craft, or a playful game like giraffe bingo, he’s on a mission to make residents smile, laugh, and feel valued.

We sat down with James to learn more about his journey, what drives him, and why care isn’t just something he does but it’s who he is.

You’ve had such a varied and inspiring career. What first drew you into care?

I’ve always wanted to work with people. Even at boarding school in Oxfordshire, I loved helping others and being around people. I attended a special needs school because of my autism, and the experience shaped my understanding of care. The staff supported each child based on their individual needs, and I saw how compassion and patience could truly change lives. That inspired me to work with children first and later, older adults.

After school, I worked with children at holiday camps, leisure centres, and even Camp America, teaching everything from archery and canoeing to arts and crafts. Over time, I realised I wanted to bring that same energy and connection to older adults, helping them reconnect with the joys of their past and create new memories.

I’ve worked with people at every stage of life, and one thing stays the same, everyone deserves to feel safe, respected, and listened to. My background has given me a strong understanding of safeguarding, emotional wellbeing, and the responsibility that comes with supporting vulnerable people. Children and older adults are the most vulnerable people in society, and it’s our job to protect them.

What is it about working with older adults that inspires you?

For me, care is personal. I want residents to feel happy and energised. Simple experiences, like a trip to the beach or a fish-and-chip lunch, can spark memories from childhood and bring so much joy to them. I’ve seen residents with dementia remember moments from 20 or 30 years ago because we recreated something familiar from their past. That’s incredibly rewarding.

I also think about what it would mean if it were my own parents. Families can’t always provide full-time care, and I want residents to feel safe, supported, and celebrated every single day. That’s why I pour my heart into every activity and interaction.

How do you approach connecting with residents and their families?

It’s all about understanding the person and building trust. Every resident has a story, and learning about their passions, history, and family helps me create activities that matter to them. I love sending updates, photos, and sharing moments of joy so families feel connected, even if they can’t be here every day.

When families see their loved ones smiling and enjoying life, it confirms that we’re doing the right thing and that’s a huge part of why I do what I do.

What makes Lancing Beach so special for you?

We started with a blank canvas, which meant I could design activities and spaces that reflected our values, our residents’ interests and needs. When I met Jacqui and the team, I just knew this was where I wanted to be and with most of the team, including myself, being local to lancing, it feels like a strong community already.

What advice would you give someone thinking about a career in care?

If you’re empathetic, unselfish, and genuinely want to make a difference, this is the work for you. Qualifications are important, but your character matters most. Ask yourself: if it were your mum or dad here, what care would you want them to receive? Treat people as you’d want your own family to be treated that’s the standard we uphold every day.

If you’re considering a career in care and want to work somewhere that values people for who they are, Lancing Beach could be the place for you. And if you’re looking for a home where your loved one will be treated with kindness, respect, and a whole lot of fun, we’d love to welcome you in. Click here to get in touch to arrange a visit, meet the team, or explore career opportunities at Lancing Beach Care Home.