End of an era as Claire heads Down Under

After almost three decades with Parklands, Claire Smith is stepping away to spend more time in Australia, a place close to her heart.

Claire joined Parklands in the mid-1990s, when the company was still finding its feet. Over nearly three decades, she has seen every side of Parklands – from frontline care to management – holding roles including pantry assistant, carer, shift leader, manager and area manager.

Reflecting on her time with Parklands, she says: “When I started working at Parklands nearly 30 years ago, there was only Parklands care home in Buckie. I’ve seen Parklands evolve from a small local provider to a well-established organisation with 13 homes.”

Claire has also seen major changes across the care sector. “Care now is far more person-centred,” she explains. “Carer roles are more formally recognised, with registration, qualifications and ongoing training now required. Families are much more involved in their loved one’s care, and we use far more electronic systems for care plans, rotas and medication.”

She says that despite the company’s expansion, its founding values haven’t changed. “As Parklands has grown, it has continued to maintain its commitment to delivering high standards of care, supported by stronger management structures and investment in training,” she says. “I was part of the group that helped to establish the Parklands values many years ago, and they’re still essential for maintaining consistent standards across all homes. In a way, growth has strengthened them.”

Over the years, Claire has worked with hundreds of colleagues, residents and families across the Parklands group. It’s the people, she says, that she will miss most. “My colleagues, residents, relatives and health professionals have been like a second family to me,” she reflects. “The leadership team has always been approachable and genuinely committed to both staff and residents.”

Asked what she is most proud of, Claire points to the qualifications she has gained while balancing full-time work, and the opportunity to make a positive difference to others. “It’s been rewarding to support residents and staff alike and to see the difference good care can make,” she says.

Claire has family in Australia and has always loved spending time there on holiday. Lately, though, a few weeks at a time just hasn’t felt enough. “For me the time is right. I spent some time there in the 90’s and each time I visit for a holiday it just isn’t enough,” she says. “It has always been my goal to spend more time in Australia, and I have been fortunate enough to be given this opportunity.”

As she prepares for her journey Down Under, Claire is looking forward to new adventures. “I’m looking forward to new experiences, travelling more and spending time with my favourite people in a beautiful place.”

Parklands Managing Director Ron Taylor says Claire has helped shape Parklands into what it is today. “Claire’s been such an important part of Parklands for so long – it’s hard to imagine the place without her,” he says. “I’m so grateful for all the help and support she’s given me over the years – whatever the problem, Claire could always fix it! She’ll be hugely missed by everyone.”

It’s the end of an era for Parklands, but the start of a new chapter for Claire. We wish her every success.