Tubi Malawo's Story

I’m a registered nurse and trained in my country of birth, Zambia, graduating from nursing school in 2006. During the years that followed I was employed in both government and private sectors, working in adult medical, surgical and critical units. With this experience under my belt, my family supported my decision to apply to further my career in the UK and in 2017, I was successful in obtaining a job with the Caring Homes Group.

A positive start in the UK

My first role was in a Caring Home in Lancashire and from there, the company supported me throughout my training and preparations for my OSCE exam, which assesses clinical and communication skills. I also obtained my PIN as a registered nurse.

In 2018, I felt I needed a new challenge but wanted to stay with Caring Homes so I asked whether an internal transfer would be possible. The company offered me several of options to look at, but I liked the sound of The Orchard in St Albans. The online reviews were positive, and it seemed like a safe place to raise a family.

I visited two other homes to get a feel for different environments and towns, before arriving at The Orchard to meet the manager, who at that time was Wendy. Her bright, smiling face was immediately encouraging – in fact, I think my decision was made from that moment of positivity! Wendy took me through all the departments and introduced me to the staff on each floor. The team were from all cultures and backgrounds, and everyone was kind and smiling. The home itself was so beautiful and well presented, from the reception area all the way through. It felt like home.

“The Orchard felt like home”

After the show round Wendy said she hoped I liked The Orchard, and that she would wait for HQ to inform her of my decision as she was aware I had other homes to consider. I just couldn't wait. I said, “I don’t think I need to go to the other places; I want to work at The Orchard”.

Six weeks later, I started work at The Orchard and my family and I moved to St Albans. I worked days at first, then moved into nights to accommodate my children’s school schedules at that time.

In 2020, three Unit Manager positions opened up and I decided to challenge myself and apply for the job. I was successful, and afterwards, the company sponsored me to do my NVQ Level 5 in Adult Social Care. I worked in this role full time until July 2023 and then continued part-time.

Flourishing in a new role

At this point, I felt I needed to expand my experience in the UK and in Geriatric Nursing in particular, and so I joined the NHS at Band 5 level. This gave me the opportunity to broaden my clinical skills and competencies, but I was always in touch with my friends and colleagues at The Orchard. When I heard that the Deputy Clinical Manager position at The Orchard had become available, I applied and was delighted to be successful!

On a personal and professional level, I’m really looking forward to working with my team in my new role. I’m hoping to gain more knowledge in leadership and management skills and will work with the team towards achieving our goals through offering safe and high quality care. In the future, I’d like to progress to the next level and enroll onto higher professional studies.

To anyone looking for career progression, Caring Homes is one place that I would undoubtedly say rewards those who deserve it. For anyone wanting to grow both on a personal and professional level, the teams are great to interact with and training and support is available to all. Caring Homes really cares.

Discover The Orchard Nursing Home in St Albans

The Orchard Nursing Home, a modern and comfortable care home based in St Albans is beautifully furnished and offers residential, nursing and dementia care. Our location makes us convenient for family and friends who are visiting the home, and we’re perfectly located for a host of different outings across Hertfordshire.

For more information about The Orchard Nursing Home, please visit our dedicated page for more information. You can also find information on our other care homes by exploring our site. Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to find out more.