Maz is the wind beneath Inglewood’s wings

Since joining Inglewood Nursing Home in 1999, domestic assistant Marion Rugless-Reid (affectionately known as Maz) has earned huge admiration and respect for her expertise in managing the home’s laundry.

Maz’s attentiveness to maintenance – especially her prompt reporting of issues and liaising with engineers when needed – ensures the continued smooth operation of the home’s laundry equipment.

And while lost laundry is a common occurrence in care homes, it’s a rarity at Inglewood, thanks to Maz’s extraordinary ability to identify and recover items swiftly. As home manager Rani Raju puts it, “I don’t know how she does it, given the huge number of items that pass through the laundry!”

This was only one reason why Rani nominated Maz for both the National Care Awards and the Great British Care Awards this year.

Her dedication extends far beyond her assigned duties. Trained in moving and handling assistance, she supports her carer colleagues by using hoists and other equipment as needed. She also steps in during busy times to cover other housekeeping tasks, tidy the kitchen, deliver breakfast trays to residents and even greets visitors, often with refreshments that she has made herself. This level of commitment makes her an invaluable team player, always going above and beyond to support her colleagues and the home’s residents.

“She is everywhere, helping everyone!” says Rani. “Her proactive approach and cheerful demeanour make her an invaluable part of the team.”

Maz’s humour and warmth endear her to residents, families and staff alike. She is known for her quick wit, filling the home with laughter and helping to create a positive atmosphere. Families ask about her during visits, a testament to the lasting relationships that she builds.

Her humour and openness make her a natural spokesperson for her team. She confidently shares ideas with everyone, including very senior members of the team who value her honesty and wit.

So it’s hardly surprising that colleagues describe her as the “wind beneath Inglewood’s wings,” a fitting tribute to her tireless efforts and uplifting presence. Whether caring for or tracking down residents’ laundry, supporting her teammates or contributing to the home’s events, Maz exemplifies the values of dedication, innovation and care. She is quite simply a very dear and irreplaceable part of Inglewood Nursing Home.