Judith Meaden has devoted her life to caring for others and after 33 years as a trained nurse, her journey has brought her to Beech Manor Care Home in Blairgowrie.
Judith, 61, was recently appointed as manager and describes it as one of her most rewarding roles.
“As a child, my ambition was to be a nurse”, she says. “No-one in my family was in the profession, so I don’t know where the inspiration came from, but I absolutely love my job!
“One of the most rewarding aspects is seeing the residents happy and well-looked after. I strive to give my best and help others reach their potential and I want to continue the high standards of care that Beech Manor provide.”
Born in Keighley, West Yorkshire, Judith left home at 18 to join the army where she began nurse training. She served in Aldershot, Munster and Catterick and “had a fantastic time”.
She began working in care homes in 1993 after moving to Kinross with her husband, Michael, whom she met in the army when the pair were posted in Germany.
Judith managed her first care home in 2017 and in February, she took on the top job at Beech Manor, a purpose-built care home with 45 en-suite rooms operated by Renaissance Care.
Judith believes that social activities are important for residents’ wellbeing and has introduced “afternoon teas”, which give residents a chance to meet older people in the wider community.
The first afternoon tea was held last Wednesday, when residents from Renaissance Care’s Benvie Home in Dundee enjoyed a day trip to Beech Manor.
“We provide a warm, friendly atmosphere at Beech Manor and everyone – from the staff to those we care for and their friends and families who visit – make that possible,” says Judith.
“People are at the heart of our home and the companionship, compassion and care that are the hallmarks of Beech Manor are nurtured by strong relationships, community engagement and stimulating activities.”
A typical working day for Judith starts at 8am and includes a review with overnight staff and catching up with residents during breakfast and again at lunch.
As manager, Judith also has administrative duties which keep her busy throughout the day.
Asked what qualities make a good manager, Judith says: “You have to be a very good listener and be able to build relationships with the residents and families,” she says.
In July, Judith will celebrate 40 years of marriage to Michael. The couple have a son, Luke, 35, who lives with his partner Jo and their two children, Keira and Lacey, in the South of England.
Judith is a self-confessed dog-lover and says much of her and Michael’s spare time is taken up by their six dogs.
“We currently have four Spaniels and two Labradors. They are wonderful and we love going out walking in the hills.”
Judith also enjoys going on holiday with her oldest sister – “my husband doesn’t like the sun” – and they usually go twice a year.
She adds: “I am also an avid reader and always have a book on the go!”
Yvonne Richardson, Operations Director at Renaissance Care, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Judith to Beech Manor. She brings a wealth of experience, but just as importantly, she shares our belief in putting people at the heart of everything we do. Judith is already building strong relationships with the team, and we’re excited to see them continue to grow and thrive together.”
