Manager – Amanda Cooper
Amanda has been with us since March 2012. She is enthusiastic and approachable with an infectious smile and a sunny disposition! She sets a fantastic example to everyone at the home with her hands-on approach and helps make Barton Lodge the best home in the New Forest Region.
Amanda holds qualifications in Health and Social Care and has completed her master’s degree equivalent, QCF Level 7 accreditation. She is also a Mental Health First Aider and qualified in grief and bereavement counselling, as well as Dementia Care Practice Level 3. She continues to maintain her qualifications and knowledge through attendance at training courses and seminars throughout the year.
In her spare time, Amanda enjoys aqua-size and spending time with family and friends. She also has a cat called Smudge – which she is allergic to!
Activities Coordinator – Barbara Almond
Barbara joined Barton Lodge in May 2014 and has a real passion for organising fun and entertaining activities. Her experience stems from her days as a Girl Guide leader and Scout leader bringing 19 years of experience to Barton Lodge. She really is an expert in her field!
Barbara’s warm, smiling and approachable character helps her build an excellent rapport with the residents and she loves seeing those smiles after an afternoon of activities! She genuinely thrives on the pleasure she feels when she sees the difference the activities make to the lives of our residents.
In her spare time, Barbara enjoys spending quality time with her family and has two dogs that keep her busy outside of work!
Activities Coordinator – Jenny Edge
Jenny’s first job when she left school was a Window Dresser with a well-known high street fashion retailer. Jenny then went on to achieve a City and Guilds in Floristry and run her own shop in Southbourne for five years. Jenny has N.V.Q 3 and 4 in Health and Social Care and has worked in a care home setting for more than twenty years. Activities has been a very important part of Jenny’s work.
Jenny is involved with the local Dementia Group and Café and is married with one son and three grandchildren which keep her busy. Jenny also has a Persian rescue cat named Dulcie Vita, who loves to visit the residents of Barton Lodge for cuddles.
Jenny’s hobbies include; reading, swimming, arts & crafts, aromatherapy and holistic therapies and she is just learning to knit!
Maintenance – Gavin
Gavin oversees the upkeep of our Home and our wonderful grounds at Barton Lodge. He specialises in landscaping and gardening, which is evident from the beautiful open space we have here. Gavin can turn his hand to just about anything and is a great addition to the team.
In his spare time, Gavin enjoys spending time with his wife and 3 children and getting out for walks in the New Forest. He also enjoys boxing and is an avid Manchester United fan.
Head Chef – Ash
Ash started his career as an accountant in India, before travelling to the UK and beginning his career at Barton Lodge as our Kitchen Assistant. Through hard work and dedication, Ash has worked his way up to Head Chef.
Ash prides himself on creating delicious fresh food, with a menu inspired by our residents.
Ash is married, with a young daughter, and enjoys going to the seaside and the New Forest with them both.
