With over 30 years at the social care charity RMBI Care Co., Care Home Manager Nina Stephens reflects on her dedication to dementia care.
In 1994, Nina Stephens embarked on a journey that would shape her life and career in ways she could never have imagined. What started as a simple placement for work experience as a student nurse at the RMBI Care Co. quickly turned into a lifelong passion. Nina was hooked from the start. “It got under my skin,” she says, and that feeling never went away. Now, with over 30 years under her belt at the charity, Nina has found more than just a job — she’s found her true purpose.
What kept Nina at RMBI Care Co. for all these years is the organisation’s ethos and values. “It’s not just about having a job,” she explains. “It’s about learning, growing, and making a difference. The culture here really encourages personal development, and that’s what I’ve always loved about it.” Over the years, Nina has worn many hats — from Carer to Shift Leader, Activities Coordinator to In-House Trainer, and even Deputy Home Manager at Prince Michael of Kent Court in Watford. Each role gave her new insights and skills, but the pinnacle came in 2022 when she was given the opportunity to work as a Registered Home Manager at Prince George Duke of Kent Court in Chislehurst.
Nina’s dedication to improving the lives of residents, particularly those living with dementia, is truly inspiring. “Dementia care is my passion,” she says, her eyes lighting up when she talks about it. For Nina, it’s all about making the residents feel seen, heard, and valued. “I always tell my team about building sandcastles,” she explains with a smile. “Like memories, sandcastles can get washed away by the tide, but we rebuild them every day. The memories may fade, but the feelings stay with us.” This approach resonates deeply with both her team and the residents, as it encourages living in the moment and finding joy in the small, meaningful interactions that can brighten someone’s day.
Nina’s hard work and commitment to dementia care haven’t gone unnoticed. Under her leadership, Prince George Duke of Kent Court recently earned the EMBRACE Dementia Accreditation, a prestigious recognition for outstanding care and support for residents with dementia. The award was presented by the Mayor of Bromley, Councillor Dr David Barrington Jefferys, during a special ceremony earlier this year. “It was such a proud moment for all of us,” Nina says, reflecting on the accolade. “But it’s not just about the award. It’s about knowing that we’re making a real difference in the lives of those who need it most.”
Nina is also deeply committed to the well-being of her team. In addition to advocating for pay rises and addressing concerns like ULEZ charges, she’s also set up a food bank for staff members struggling with the rising cost of living. “It’s so important that we look after the people who are looking after others,” she says. “Everyone is working so hard, and I want them to know that we’re all in this together.”
Her commitment to her team and the residents has also earned Nina recognition in the form of the Registered Manager Award at the National Great British Care Awards. “I was absolutely thrilled to receive the award,” she says, her voice full of gratitude. “But the best part was sharing the moment with the amazing residents and the dedicated team who make it all possible. We all play a part in making this care home a special place.”
Nina’s journey at RMBI Care Co. is a testament to the power of passion, purpose, and unwavering dedication. Through her leadership, compassion, and advocacy, she’s created a lasting impact, not only on the residents but on her team, her community, and the care sector as a whole. It’s clear that Nina’s love for the job has only grown stronger with time — and she wouldn’t have it any other way.
