At Rowanbrook, we know that true well-being is a team effort. While our carers provide clinical support and our kitchen team nourishes the body, the overall happiness of our residents is cared for by everyone who makes up our family. We are thrilled to announce that our Rowanbrook family is growing, and we are placing a special spotlight on the newest addition to our team: our Activities Coordinator, Darren.
From the Royal Artillery to Rowanbrook
Darren has stepped into the role of Activities Coordinator and is already making a fantastic impact. While the activities team is currently just him, his vision and energy are enough to fill the whole home!
Darren brings a wonderfully varied background to Rowanbrook. He previously served as the Activities Coordinator at Willow Rose for two years and held the Maintenance Manager position at Wulfrun Rose before that. However, the largest chapter of his career was in the Armed Forces, where he served with the Royal Artillery for 21 years. Adding to this, he has experience as a pub landlord, photographer, bodyguard, and security manager, plus, he is a certified Dog Trainer, Mantrailing Instructor, and Scentwork Instructor! This unique skill set means our residents benefit from a creative, organised, and truly engaging activities calendar. As an extra special connection, Darren’s wife, Joanne, is Rowanbrook’s Head Chef, strengthening the family feel of our team.
New Adventures and Increased Engagement
Darren is committed to filling our home with laughter, music, and purpose. We are already planning exciting social events, including a singer who visits regularly.
To keep every resident fully informed and engaged, Darren has created a residents’ magazine. This fantastic new publication is packed with monthly calendars, puzzles, jokes, and updates on upcoming events, ensuring everyone knows what fun is on the horizon. For residents who prefer quieter activities, or need help reading, Darren and the care team are always on hand to ensure everyone is included.
A Powerful Reminder of Purpose
When asked about his vision for the social life at Rowanbrook, Darren said: “I like to see residents talking and laughing with each other.”
This vision is already coming to life. Darren shared a heartwarming anecdote about one resident, Sylvia, who initially spent most of her time in bed. “Now, she is up every day in the lounge with other residents and loves interacting with the dogs when they visit,” Darren says. “She had dogs all her life and enjoys showing me photographs of them.”
This transformation with Sylvia is a powerful reminder that every role at Rowanbrook, including Darren’s, is pivotal in building a happy, engaging life for our residents.
Home Manager Bo says, “We are absolutely thrilled to welcome Darren and his energy to the Rowanbrook family. His background, from the Armed Forces to his expertise in dog training, brings such a unique and valuable dynamic to our home. His focus on creating engaging, evidence-based activities—like launching the residents’ magazine, is vital. Seeing residents like Sylvia become fully engaged and sharing smiles is the best possible affirmation that purpose and connection are the most important elements of the care we provide here.”
If you would like to find out more about the care we provide here at Rowanbrook, please contact the home on 01902 931200.
