Meet our manager at The Clough, Claire Ashcroft…

Who are you?

Hi, I’m Claire Ashcroft, the new home manager here at The Clough.

What inspired you to choose health and social care as your career path?

I began my career in adult social care in 2006 when my grandad was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s. As a family we had never had any exposure or experience in something like this. I felt a sense of responsibility and pursued a role where I could work, but also develop skills to care for my Grandad too. Since then, I have never looked back!

That’s such a touching and noble career decision. How did you start as a carer and progress all the way to home manager?

I started my career as a carer in a residential home and quickly progressed to a senior carer role. In 2012, I decided to focus my development on domiciliary care, where for the next 9 years I progressed through the company, from care co-ordinator, to head of client experience and then deputy manager and here, I obtained my Level 5 Diploma in Adult Social Care.
I was appointed the registered manager of a home care company and enjoyed that experience and pressure, but in 2023 I had a career pivot into quality and compliance.
I enjoyed the different challenges presented in that role, but I really missed the interaction and the human touch I would regularly have in my previous roles, working day in, day out with the residents. With that, I decided to apply to be manager at The Clough and it’s one of the best decisions I have made in my career. I feel back at home.

What do you think makes you an effective manager?

I am deeply passionate about motivating staff and encouraging people to be the best version of themselves. This can be either with staff development or supporting a resident to pick up an old hobby they used to love.
I like to be hands on and you will often see me taking part in the activities and really getting to know the residents. Being an approachable person for residents and their loved ones creates a great sense of comfort and trust which is essential in a care setting.

I want to come and work with you! What about away from the care home, tell me a bit about your other passions?

Outside of work I love to keep myself busy. I am part of a dance troupe who compete every 3-4 weeks.
I love to be out in the open and I am most at peace near water. I love nothing more sitting near the sea and hearing the sound of the ocean coming and going in waves. I have a passion for cooking and although I can bake a lovely cake I’m not as skilled or patient when it comes to decorating them!

Finally, why would YOU choose The Clough for your family?

I have lived close to The Clough for a long time and have always loved the look of the grandeur of the building and its stunning gardens. I visited the home in my previous care positions and the place has always captivated me. The outdoor space is stunning and we are always encouraging our residents to step out and enjoy it. Whilst also offering plenty of activities and stimulation inside too.