Keeping it in the family: working side by side with Mum
At Parklands, our motto is ‘Our family caring for yours’ and for some of our staff, that’s quite literally the case! To mark Mother’s Day, we’re celebrating the mums and their children who work together in our care homes, supporting each other while making a difference in the lives of residents. These families show that care is more than just a profession - it’s a passion passed down through generations.
Brandon & Wilma Leslie, Wakefield House
For carer Brandon Leslie (pictured above), working alongside his mum, Wilma, at Wakefield House has been a mix of fun and life lessons. He jokes, "I am still able to push my mum's buttons, even when we are working!" But despite the playful teasing, he admits Wilma’s strong work ethic has made a lasting impression on him.
Brandon says "my mum has always been hard-working, and I think this is what cemented my own work ethic." His induction under her watchful eye, however, was an experience he won’t forget: "It genuinely felt like torture! She was definitely pickier with me than she would have been with anyone else. I still think now that my mum is harder on me at work than other staff and has higher expectations because I am her son.” A mother’s work is never done, it seems!
Natasha & Louise Gillies, Speyside
At Speyside, Natasha Gillies works under the leadership of her mum, Louise, the home’s manager. Growing up, Natasha watched her mum’s journey through various roles in the company—starting as a carer, then a shift leader, before moving into office support and eventually becoming a manager. "Mum has worked so hard to get where she is," Natasha says.
Seeing her mother’s passion for ensuring residents receive the best care has been inspiring: "she is passionate about making sure people's needs are met,” she says. “She loves her job and will do what it takes to ensure people enjoy their day." Natasha especially relishes the moments when her mum joins the care staff on the floor, using her experience to mentor and support the team. "She is always there to support and encourage myself and others," Natasha adds – support that she believes will help her in her path to becoming a social worker.
Emily Christie & Leanne Stephen, Wakefield House
Emily Christie’s admiration for her mum, Leanne, the manager at Wakefield House, comes from watching her personal and professional sacrifices. "She was a young mum and put her career on hold to raise three children before focusing on her nursing," Emily (pictured above) explains.
Seeing her mum achieve her dream of becoming a home manager has been a source of immense pride. "I have learned to always try my best and to put others first. My mum is very hard-working, and I think that has moulded my work ethic." Emily values the times they work together, especially when Leanne jumps in to support the care staff. "She has so much knowledge, so she is always on hand when someone needs something."
Kaitlyn Naylor & Amanda Shaw, Speyside
At Speyside, Kaitlyn Naylor works alongside her mum, Amanda Shaw, the home’s activities coordinator. Amanda plays a vital role in keeping residents entertained and connected to the local community, something Kaitlyn deeply admires. "She is a very kind person and tries very hard to do her job well," Kaitlyn says. "She’s a good role model and is extremely passionate about providing the right entertainment for residents.”
Outside of work, the mother-daughter duo knows how to have fun. "We are able to have a laugh outside of work, but we also get on really well in the home," Kaitlyn adds. Watching Amanda build strong relationships with residents and the wider community has been an inspiration: "She makes sure to spend the time with people to build positive relationships."
