From Care Assistant to Home Manager: Anila’s Career Growth Journey with Anchor

Anila is a Care Home Manager at Oakwood Grange in Barnsley. In her blog, she talks about how she came into her current role, and the skills and experiences she gained along the way. 

1.    Can you share your journey with Anchor and how you progressed into your current role?

I started in care with Anchor in 2020 during Covid times when I was completing my Doctor of Pharmacy studies. I enjoyed it so much that I’ve been working in social care ever since and currently I’m the Home Manager at Oakwood Grange. My journey started with Anchor as a Care Assistant, progressed to Team Leader to a Deputy Manager and currently the Home Manager within 4 years. Throughout my journey I have learnt so much with the experiences of other colleagues, the internal trainings and mentorship provided by Anchor. 

Learn more about our Care Home Manager and Deputy Manager jobs at Anchor.

2.    What skills or experience have you gained here that prepared you for your current role?

Alongside my pharmacy qualification, I have completed Level 3 Diploma in Adult Social Care with Anchor and currently preparing to get enrolled for Level 5. I have learnt lots of skills, but the most important skill is the people management and leadership experience throughout my progression in career within Anchor. I have thrived on challenges with a positive and cheerful attitude to provide exceptional and high quality of care to residents. And working with Anchor I have received immense support from the managers I have worked with, be it Home Managers, Regional Support Managers, Service Improvement Advisors, Care Quality Advisors, District Managers and Directors of Care who have always been there to support me when needed. 

Read more about our apprenticeship programmes.

3.    What do you enjoy most about your role as a Care Home Manager?

Absolutely everything but most importantly the conversations and spending time with residents and meeting their expectations in their later lives and providing them the standard of care they deserve. 

4.    What inspired you to take on new challenges and grow within the organisation?

My curiosity and willingness to learn something new every day has helped me taking on new challenges and grow within the organisation. The positive attitude has made all the difference. 

5.    How has Anchor supported you throughout your career journey so far?

Anchor has lots of learning, development and training opportunities that has helped me in my career journey. I was enrolled for the coaches training which enables me to share knowledge with my colleagues on how to safely assist residents with their mobility needs. I have also completed my apprenticeship with Anchor, and most importantly the support and guidance provided by the leaders of Anchor. 

Learn more about our learning and development opportunities.

6.    What would you say to someone considering joining Anchor that wants to progress in the Care sector? 

I would like to say to them, ‘‘Go for it’’. With over 4 years of my experience with Anchor it is a great company to work with. Anchor not only offers training and learning opportunities but also offers lots of rewards and benefits for yourself and even your family. 

7.    What personal / career advice would you give to someone looking to develop into a similar career path as yourself?

I would like to say that positivity is the key. If you have the right skills and belief in yourself, you can certainly do it! Take some time to reflect on what you like to do and then choose. Being content at work and enjoying your work is crucial since without this, you would not be able to progress in any career.

If you are considering a career in care, you can see what careers we have available at Anchor by clicking here.  Whether you're aiming to specialise in a certain area, pursue further qualifications, or lead a team, the care sector offers clear paths for development. 

Anila is a Care Home Manager at Oakwood Grange.