How fatherhood led to a new calling — guiding Peter Thorneycroft, Wellbeing Facilitator at TLC Carlton Court, into a career built on connection and care.
Peter Thorneycroft did not begin his career in care. He worked as a CCTV Operative for the Metropolitan Police, monitoring incidents and safeguarding public spaces. But caring for his disabled son reshaped his perspective — and ultimately his path.
That experience gave him a deep understanding of vulnerability, dignity and the importance of compassionate support. It led him into the care sector, first with Mencap and later to TLC Carlton Court Care Home, where he now works as Wellbeing Facilitator, creating moments of laughter, connection and purpose for residents every day.
For Peter Thorneycroft, wellbeing is not a concept confined to care plans or timetables. It is something lived and shared every day through laughter, conversation and meaningful connection. As Wellbeing Facilitator at TLC Carlton Court Care Home, part of the award-winning TLC Care Group, Peter plays a central role in ensuring residents feel valued, stimulated and part of a vibrant community.
Peter has worked at TLC Carlton Court for three years, planning and delivering a wide range of activities designed to promote social interaction and prevent isolation. From group sessions to one-to-one moments, his focus is on supporting residents emotionally and mentally, giving them a sense of purpose and enjoyment while enhancing their overall quality of life.
“I believe laughter is key to a happy and fulfilling life,” says Peter. “Building meaningful social interactions and sharing a joke can make such a difference to someone’s day.”
That belief is felt throughout the home, where Peter works closely with team members across all departments. Collaboration is something he values deeply and he speaks warmly about the team spirit at TLC Carlton Court and the shared commitment to compassionate, person-centred care.
Peter’s journey into the care sector was shaped by personal experience. After beginning his career in security and later caring for his disabled son, he gained a deeper understanding of vulnerability and dignity. This experience led him to work with Mencap, where he supported people with learning disabilities and discovered his true calling.
When he later applied for a housekeeping role at TLC Carlton Court, his background and personal connection to care were recognised and he was encouraged to step into the role of Activities Coordinator Wellbeing.
“Caring for my son has strengthened my ability to provide meaningful, person-centred support,” he explains. “It has shaped how I connect with residents and understand what really matters to them.”
Peter’s dedication and creativity have not gone unnoticed. He was recently named winner of the Care Home Activity Organiser Award at the Great British Care Awards, London region, an achievement he describes as overwhelming and deeply emotional.
“I had never attended an awards event like that before,” he says. “To be nominated was an honour in itself, but to win was truly humbling. It is something I am extremely proud of.”
The award reflects not only Peter’s individual commitment but also the supportive environment fostered by TLC Care. TLC Carlton Court is one of nine award-winning, luxury care homes that make up TLC Care, a group known for its focus on high-quality care, exceptional environments and team member development.
Outside of work, Peter enjoys fishing — a quiet contrast to the energy he brings to the home. It gives him space to reflect and recharge, something he recognises as essential in a role built on emotional connection.
For Peter, working in care is not simply a job change; it is a continuation of fatherhood in a different form. The empathy, patience and resilience he developed supporting his son now shape how he supports residents every day.
Moving from surveillance to support, he has found purpose in presence — in laughter shared, confidence rebuilt and moments that make people feel seen. His journey is a reminder that some of the strongest people in care are those whose own lives have taught them what dignity and connection truly mean.
