#IWD2023 ??

We asked our COO Clair Carpenter, Debden Village Manager Sammie Palmer and Elmbridge Assistant Village Manager Susan Martinsen some questions for #IWD2023 ??

Hi Clair, tell us about your role at RVG ????

My role is to support our people and our business to thrive and our People team shaped our winter wellness package, supporting colleagues with the cost of living and introducing company sick pay, supporting how we work as one team. Change and communications have already begun to connect our people with clear, engaging and transparent communication. And our technology plan is underway to do the basics brilliantly as well as support our connection and growth.?

Tell us a bit about yourself ??

I am a proud single Mum to Teddy (age 10), close to my family and loving my work too.?I live in Ledbury, Herefordshire – a small market town that is snuggled in the Malvern Hills.?Outside of work I enjoy walking in the countryside, cooking for my family, the occasional binge watch (Happy Valley, Traitors and I’m a massive Strictly fan) and wellness is important to me through yoga, meditation and I am a Reiki Master.

What is your proudest achievement whilst working at RVG? ??

I am proudest when I can see how our values are lived every day, and what impact that has on our residents’ lives.?I am very proud to work for a company with true purpose which connects us all. And I am privileged to work with brilliant and inspiring people at every level of our organisation.??

What women inspire you the most? ??

Gosh – that question is always so hard to answer.?I’ll choose three:

Betty Boothroyd - The first female Speaker of the House of Commons she was respected in a male dominated world of politics and known for her fairness, clarity and no-nonsense style.

Greta Thunberg – fearless in her fight to save the planet, she wields soft power so effectively.?A proof that children can change the world for good.

My Mum – Mum held down a full-time job and juggled two kids to give us the opportunities she never had as a kid – and we felt loved, supported to be ourselves, independent to make our own decisions and mistakes, and nurtured.??

Hi Sammie, what is your proudest moment since working at RVG? ??

This is how quickly I have progressed within the company. I have been given the most remarkable opportunities and felt valued and respected at all times. Starting as Kitchen Assistant, moving to Front of House Manager, Assistant Manager and now Village Manager all within three years. This has made me so proud of myself and honoured to work for this company who sees growth and development as such a high priority.

Hi Susan ?? What has been your proudest moment since working at RVG?

The success of the Hair and Beauty Salon which was vehemently opposed initially but now brings joy and self-worth to residents and plays an important part in the Village community.