IWD: Meet Emilia Turner, Wellbeing and Lifestyle Lead at Verwood House

Be inspired by Emilia, the empowering force behind Verwood House's Wellbeing and Lifestyle initiatives. As a passionate Lead, she is dedicated to helping others thrive and reach their full potential.

What year did you join the Hamberley team?

I’ve started working at Verwood House (previously known as Waypoints Verwood) in 2011, so will be working here for 13 years in August 2024.

Why Hamberley?

I picked up a job as a part-time dining room assistant whilst was studying Travel and Tourism at college when I was 18. I become passionate about care industry, and shortly after I progressed into lifestyle assistant/carer, then activities coordinator, and in 2021 to Wellbeing and Lifestyle Coach. I stand by Hamberley Care Homes Vision and Values of Dignity, Empowerment, Commitment, Collaboration, Creativity, and Innovation. Every day is different at Verwood House, and we are all like a family. I like that at Hamberley Care homes we make each day special, provide enrichment opportunities for our residents. I am deeply committed to wellbeing and strive to offer outstanding care where residents can live their life to the fullest potential! We work together as a team not only at Verwood House, but across the group!

How long have you worked in the care industry?

I’ve worked in care industry since 2011. I worked for Waypoints Verwood Ltd. Which then changed to Hamberley Care Homes.

What challenges have you faced along the way?

My only challenges initially were understanding needs of individuals we look after, but over the years I attended courses and gained knowledge to support me. I always had support from higher management team and my colleagues which was great. I strive to always provide excellent care to our residents and say to myself ‘We live in our residents home, they don’t live in our workplace’’. I often share this quote with my colleagues.

If you have any advice for any women who would like to be in a leadership role in the future, what advice would you give them?

Don’t be afraid to follow your dreams, Sky is the limit. Try to showcase your knowledge, support others and value their opinions. Let people know they can rely on you, this will help you develop trust and respect.

What do you think are the most important qualities of a successful leader?

A successful leader should have courage, respect, empathy, and vision for excellence

Who are some of your female role models?

My female role models are Emma Thompson and Audrey Hepburn.

How do you maintain a work-life balance in a high-pressure leadership role?

I maintain my work-life balance by being organized at work, always smiling, setting boundaries, and sticking to them.
I make sure I spend time with family and friends, get involved with my hobbies outside of work.

Wellness and Lifestyle

Happiness and harmony are at the heart of our home life. Our Wellbeing Coaches and Homemakers ensure that we create a nurturing and stimulating environment for all who live and work in our communities.

Verwood House Care Home in Verwood

Verwood House care home in Verwood, East Dorset, offers residential care and dementia care, as well as short breaks within a supportive, homely environment. Our Homemakers concept of care ensures everyone is engaged in home life and feels a sense of purpose and pride in the companionable care communities we nurture. 

Our Central Team

We put people at the heart of what we do to create communities where people want to work.

Careers Portal

Search and apply for roles via our Careers Portal. We’re looking for people that have the passion, empathy and dedication to help our residents live their lives to the fullest.