Laura is a familiar face to many, having been on the reception desk here at Barty for a year before stepping into the role of activities team leader.

One of Laura’s favourite elements of the job is the impressive group effort and morale developed during the pandemic. “You couldn’t beat it. Everyone stuck together and worked for each other. Over the last year, it has been a real test of character and strength of will to pull together in the face of adversity,” she says.

One of the most positive reactions to the pandemic has been people’s generosity. Laura has been very involved in the charitable work that Barty has been doing to raise money for the Heart of Kent Hospice. So far, they have raised £500, which is a huge achievement!

Laura has always lived and worked in the Maidstone area, and is still very close to her family. Unfortunately, she has been unable to bring them to Barty due to Covid-19, however, she still plans to invite her mum here to take photographs of the wealth of wildlife spotted in the grounds! As well as birds and rabbits, this also includes a large and “cheeky!” Bengal cat – something that Laura is well accustomed to, with two cats of her own.

Laura loves doing the activities with the residents, and really enjoys those in which the residents “can be loud”, such as bowls or ball games. Her other favourites are the art and crafts sessions which can be greatly varied and are also very creative. Most mornings, Laura is busy planning activities schedules with her team, Brenda, Gillian and newly joined Molli-Rebecca.

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