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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin"><a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/alison-hesketh">Alison Hesketh</a>, the Founder and Managing Director at <a href="https://timefindersuk.com/">TimeFinders</a>, originally carved a niche for herself as a charity troubleshooter par excellence.&nbsp;She became the lynchpin for medium and small charities in turmoil, often stepping in as their acting CEO. “My job was to sort out whatever mess they were in,” Hesketh shares candidly about her role as a consultant. Her commitment to each charity ranged from three months to two years, during which she not only steered them out of crisis but also laid the groundwork for a stable future by aiding in the recruitment of a permanent CEO.Hesketh’s journey was fraught with challenges, notably bridging the divide between paid staff and unpaid trustees and volunteers. She recalls the prevailing mindset: “There was still very much the view that this is a charity so therefore you should be doing it out of love and not for money.” Overcoming this notion and advocating for the professionalism of the staff, while also acknowledging their financial needs, was a significant hurdle in the early days.As the charity sector evolved, Hesketh was at the forefront of embracing change. She played a pivotal role in the nascent days of the Institute of Charity Fundraising Managers, now known as the Institute of Fundraising, setting up codes of practice to guide ethical fundraising. Challenging the focus on problems rather than solutions, she pushed for promoting positive images of charities’ work, especially in developing countries, despite considerable resistance.The TimeFinders Story: Helping Life’s Transitions with CompassionBut it was Alison’s personal experience with her mother’s need to downsize in her late 70s that was the catalyst for the creation of TimeFinders. “She was still fully compulsory, just getting a little bit physically frail,” Hesketh explains. The challenge of managing this transition while juggling a full-time job and family responsibilities was significant. “I learned a lot from that,” she admits, highlighting the absence of services to assist with such a process.Following a career break due to spinal illness and the passing of her mother, Hesketh decided against returning to the voluntary sector. It was then that a friend’s frustration with managing their own mother’s affairs sparked an idea. “That was one of those light bulb moments,” Hesketh says, recognising the unmet need for a service to help with downsizing and relocation for the elderly.With her background in project management, Hesketh saw an opportunity to apply her skills to a new venture. TimeFinders began as a retirement downsizing service in 2010, carefully growing and adapting to the needs of its clients. Operating in an area with little regulatory oversight, TimeFinders established its own Code of Conduct to ensure ethical practices. Hesketh is particularly proud of their meticulous approach to gift acceptance, ensuring transparency and integrity when working with vulnerable individuals.As Time Finders’ clientele expressed diverse needs, the organisation expanded its services. This included family mediation, legal and financial advice signposting, and developing care options reports. “We’ve done a lot of family mediation and making sure that everybody’s expectations match,” Hesketh emphasises the importance of managing expectations to prevent conflicts.One of TimeFinders’ most innovative services is its advocacy for individuals ageing alone. Hesketh describes the development of a detailed program to understand clients’ needs intimately, allowing TimeFinders to act on their behalf should they lose capacity. “We’re there fighting for them,” she asserts, highlighting the service’s commitment to its clients’ welfare.Hesketh shares poignant stories of clients, such as a music teacher with dementia who regained her ability to play the piano, demonstrating the impact of proper care and support. “That is something that I get rather passionate about,” she admits.Championing Dignity in Dementia CareToward the end of the conversation, Alison delves into the heart of her mission. Hesketh, a dedicated dementia ambassador, emphasises the urgency of addressing the needs of those diagnosed with dementia. “It’s really important to act at that time because you need to get your legal paperwork in place and whilst you still have the mental capacity to do so,” she asserts.Hesketh’s advocacy extends beyond the individual to the systemic level. She highlights the care crisis and the need for government support, “Leaders of the care industry need to know that the government is on their side and will root for them.” Her disappointment is palpable when leaders fail to show solidarity, “It unfortunately sends the wrong signal by not turning up or sending a statement.”The challenges she describes are not just bureaucratic but deeply personal. Hesketh shares an anecdote about her mother, an ex-head teacher, who faced condescension while shopping for a fridge. This experience underscores the ageism that pervades society, “There are many people like that who just feel belittled and sidelined. They’ve got such talent that the country could be using.”Hesketh also touches on the taboo surrounding death, sharing the story of a 98-year-old gentleman who appreciated her frankness. “You’re the only person who mentions the ‘D word’… it’s probably the most important thing that’s going to happen to me next, and I want to make sure that it’s right.”Her holistic approach to care is evident as she discusses the importance of understanding clients’ wishes, “That level of understanding of empathy goes a long, long way.” Hesketh’s vision for TimeFinders is clear: to advocate for dignity in dementia care and to challenge the systems that fail to recognize the value of our elders.Coming toward the end, it’s evident that Alison Hesketh’s work with TimeFinders is more than a service but a crusade for compassion and change in the face of dementia. Her message is a call to action for society to recognise the humanity and potential of those living with dementia, and to support the carers who dedicate their lives to this cause. It’s a reminder that in the journey of life, dignity should never be a privilege, but a right for all.</div>

Discover Alison Hesketh’s transformative journey from charity troubleshooter to founder of Time Finders, where she champions dignity in elderly care, advocates for dementia patients, and provides innovative support for life’s transitions.

Alison Hesketh: Pioneering Dignity and Advocacy in Elderly Care Through TimeFinders

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">St Georges Central Primary School sits in the heart of Lancashire in the town of Tyldesley. <a href="https://www.leadersgb.co.uk/members/mark-grogan">Mark Grogan</a>, the head teacher, began his journey in 2001, not with the intention of shaping young minds but with sights set on a different kind of service.&nbsp;“I wanted to join the police,” he states, “but primary school teachers were in demand,” It was a decision that would redirect the course of his life.Within a year, Grogan discovered a passion for teaching. “Giving children opportunities to do things, I realised I loved it.” His dedication was quickly recognised, leading to a permanent contract after just one month—a rarity in the profession.Grogan’s ascent to leadership was marked by a series of “mini promotions” before taking a significant leap in 2005 as a key Stage 2 leader in Atherton. It was there, during a stint as acting head teacher, that he found his true calling. “It was on my first day that I decided I wanted to be a head teacher,” he reflects.Since his appointment in 2012, Grogan has believed that every experience, every challenge is an opportunity for growth. “You’ve got to realise that every situation is unique and needs to be looked at in as much detail each time,” he says. This approach has seen him navigate “critical incidents” with a sense of reflexivity, always learning, always adapting.Mark’s Digital StrategyMark is no stranger to the digital revolution and has a proactive approach to social media. Grogan’s digital footprint extends beyond Twitter to Instagram and other platforms, reflecting his belief in the power of these tools to connect and communicate on both local and national scales.Mark’s philosophy is to embrace the positives while acknowledging the negatives, understanding that social media is a platform for free speech. “You’ve got to embrace both,” he insists, referring to the varied opinions about the school shared online. This open-minded stance extends to interactions with parents, where he encourages dialogue rather than censorship.The head teacher’s forward-thinking doesn’t stop at social media; he’s also exploring the potential of artificial intelligence in education. Currently pursuing a master’s in educational leadership, Grogan is delving into global megatrends to better prepare for the future. Mark acknowledges the challenges that come with digital advancements, particularly among children. He sees it as a parental responsibility to monitor and guide their digital interactions. The digital world, he notes, is “a double-edged sword,” a sentiment that captures the dual nature of technology.As the landscape of social media continues to evolve with platforms like Facebook, Instagram, and TikTok, Grogan remains committed to adapting and embracing these changes. For Mark, the journey into the digital age is one of opportunity, learning, and positive engagement, setting a precedent for educational leaders everywhere.Embracing Community and OpportunityGrogan is a man deeply rooted in his community. “I live locally and I grew up in this area,” he shares, emphasising the importance of instilling a love for one’s community in the children. His approach is holistic, involving the school in over 80 sporting events and cultural activities like art exhibitions and filmmakers’ competitions, fostering a sense of pride and belonging.The school’s involvement in significant community projects, such as the mosaic on the guided busway, is a testament to its proactive nature. “When the school and the community are working collaboratively, it’s got to be positive,” Grogan states, highlighting the mutual benefits of such a partnership.The head teacher sees his role as building upon the work of his predecessors, aiming to do “what my teachers did, but better.” This philosophy extends to the physical presence of the school within the community, symbolised by the nearby St. George’s Church, a beacon visible from afar. “People will see it from a distance and think of you in your school, in your community,” he says, underlining the school’s role as a representative of the community’s spirit and values.Despite challenges like funding and recruitment, Grogan remains optimistic, viewing obstacles as opportunities. This positive outlook is what drives St Georges Central to provide exceptional opportunities for its students, making it a beacon not just in a metaphorical sense, but as a tangible symbol of hope and progress for the community it serves.The Hallmark of Leadership at St Georges CentralOver the course of the conversation, it is evident that Mark has a firm commitment to ensuring educational excellence by embracing positive changes. Drawing parallels with successful sports team managers like Sir Alex Ferguson, Grogan believes that the ability to evolve with the times is crucial for a leader. “You’ve got to be able to look at people individually, not everyone's the same,” he asserts, highlighting the importance of personalised approaches in managing staff and families.For Grogan, there are no hard and fast rules in leadership. “The world is not black and white,” he says, advocating for an interpretive approach to each unique situation. This mindset allows him to navigate the complexities of educational leadership, where factors like funding and resources may seem binary, but creative solutions can transcend such limitations.Mark’s leadership style is proactive and preemptive, always ready to adjust plans and strategies in response to new developments. “You’ve got to be ready and prepared for anything,” he explains, embodying the school’s ethos of turning challenges into opportunities. The head teacher’s vision of leadership is one that embraces change, values individuality, and seeks positive outcomes from every scenario. What’s more, his commitment to early mornings and weekend work reflects his dedication to the school and its community, ensuring that he is always prepared for the unexpected. Such preparedness will be sure to keep St George’s and the Tyldesley community flourishing for years to come.</div>

Mark Grogan's transformative journey from aspiring police officer to head teacher at St Georges Central Primary School highlights his innovative approach to education, digital strategy, and community engagement, fostering a nurturing environment for growth and learning in Tyldesley.

Mark Grogan: The Visionary Head With a Community Focus

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">David Bly, the Operations Director of Cornerstone Management Service, holds a career spanning over two decades and has been at the forefront of driving change in an industry that is all too often resistant to it.“We wanted to drive more thinking and more transparency,” Bly reflects on the early days of <a href="https://www.cornerstone-ltd.co.uk/">Cornerstone</a>, a company he co-founded 15 years ago alongside a handful of industry veterans. Their mission was clear from the outset: to revolutionise the way property damage and moisture mechanics were understood and handled. Cornerstone’s ethos was never about quick fixes. It was about understanding the structure first, whether commercial or residential, to minimise impact. This philosophy quickly garnered attention. “We were soon approached by people like the NHBC and some housing associations,” Bly notes, underscoring the trust and reputation Cornerstone built by delving into the causes of property damage rather than just treating its symptoms.Understanding the building fabrics and the diverse architectural styles across the UK has been key to Cornerstone’s success. “We’ve been utilised since that time as a company that will look at complex issues,” Bly states with a sense of pride.Today, Cornerstone stands at the cusp of sharing its wealth of knowledge more broadly. With unique platforms and CPD training on the horizon, Bly is excited about the future. “We’re going to make this available to everyone,” he declares, emphasising the company’s commitment to reducing the time from the moment mould is witnessed to when it’s removed.Running a business like Cornerstone comes with its challenges, but for Bly, the biggest hurdle was ensuring that as the company grew, the ‘Cornerstone way’ remained intact. “We’ve got a very small but unique framework now that we’re comfortable with,” he explains, ensuring that their processes are upheld across their network.Tackling the Mould: Cornerstone’s Proactive ApproachDavid is a man with a mission: to combat the increasing trend of mould in buildings, a challenge that has grown alongside the evolution of modern housing. “Since the early 1960s, as we’ve removed our fireplaces and replaced them with gas heating, changed our timber window frames with double glazing and added insulation measures exponentially, the cases of mould have followed,” Bly explains.This trend is not just a matter of aesthetics; it’s about understanding the behaviour of our buildings and the daily activities of the occupants. Bly is keen to differentiate between damp and mould for the purpose of identifying root causes, stating, “Damp will show itself as spoiling, darkening surfaces, splitting, and cracking. Whereas mould is a symptom. Mould especially is not down to one issue, it’s a number,” reflecting the complexity of the challenges they face and the depth of their expertise in addressing them. Bly’s strategy involves a ‘did you know’ approach, engaging with residents without blame and providing guidance on managing internal atmospheres to break the cycles of excess moisture. “We’re talking about a majority atmospheric related issue,” he says, citing that 91% of the buildings they surveyed were dry. This data underscores the need for a deeper understanding of building fabric and occupant behaviour.Cornerstone’s training starts with the admin staff, equipping them with a ‘5Q’—five key questions—that help identify the nature of the issue when residents call in. Bly also emphasises the importance of building orientation and the impact of daily activities like drying clothes indoors. He shares insights into the science of mould growth, explaining how warm air from our breath can condense against colder walls, providing the first nutrient for mould spores. “The fabric of the building itself is also very important,” Bly notes, highlighting the need for a greater understanding of building fabrications and types before considering any interventions.Concrete Leadership: David Bly’s Legacy at CornerstoneDavid envisions the ideal form of leadership as a concoction of variables that lead to success within a team. “Great leaders are passionate and are willing to listen, as well as having a lot to divulge and share with people,” Bly reflects. He believes that the essence of leadership lies in the ability to connect with others, to resonate with them on a personal level beyond the technicalities of business.Bly’s aspirations for Cornerstone extend beyond solving individual problems; he aims to transform strategies, training, and frameworks within housing associations. “I’d like to think we’re a company that assists with changing the strategy, training, changing the framework,” he says, emphasising the importance of sharing information to empower others.One of Bly’s innovative concepts is the ‘property MOT’, a holistic approach to ensuring the health of a building and its occupants. “When you change windows, insulate a property, or change the ventilation measures, you actually impact the whole building as a whole and therefore its occupants,” he explains. This initiative reflects his belief in the power of collective knowledge and experience to create a uniform framework for property health.Bly is not content with the status quo; he is actively working on a knowledge-sharing platform to provide timely advice on damp and mould issues. “It’s about timeliness with dealing with a report of damp and mould,” he states, advocating for accessible solutions that residents can implement themselves before escalating issues to landlords.David Bly’s legacy at Cornerstone is not just about the problems solved but the proactive strategies and frameworks established to guide housing associations into the future. His leadership style and original thinking have set a new standard in property management, ensuring that Cornerstone remains an icon of knowledge in property maintenance and a catalyst for change in the industry.</div>

David Bly has over two decades of expertise at Cornerstone Management Service. Bly's proactive approach and 'property MOT' concept are changing the industry for the better, ensuring buildings' health and empowering residents with knowledge to combat mould and dampness. 

The Cornerstone of Property Maintenance: David Bly and Cornerstone Management Services

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 <div data-pmr-editable="" class="medium-editor-insert-plugin">The story of <a href="https://haleplace.co.uk/management-team/">Kevin Hewlett</a>, Director and Owner of Hale Place Care Solutions, reminds us that it’s never too late to find your passion and that sometimes, the most challenging beginnings can lead to the most rewarding journeys.“I’ve got a colourful history, I lived on the streets and in squats for a short period and then luckily, I ended up getting a job in the bank where I did well.” This job, he says, put him back on the path, allowing him to continue his education and opening up opportunities he is very appreciative of.Despite his success in the banking sector, including three promotions and a stint working in the City, Hewlett felt something was missing. “I realised financial life wasn’t for me,” he admits. This realisation led him back to university and then into the insurance industry. Yet, the same feeling persisted. “There was something not right and I have to have a passion for something,” he explains.It was during this time that Hewlett discovered his true calling. “Whilst I was working in the insurance industry I used to go finish for the weekend and work night shifts at a care home on Friday night and Saturday night. Just as a care worker doing hands-on personal care,” he recalls. “And I realised this was something that, for some reason, I gravitated to.”From that point forward, Hewlett knew his passion lay with people and helping people more than making money. “That was where my focus became at a very early stage. And that was around the age of 27,” he says. From that point, Kevin had <a href="https://haleplace.co.uk/">the concept of Hale Place</a>, which is now celebrating 35 years of expert care and has featured in the BBC and ITV. “You need to find something that you have a passion for because the only way I believe I could improve was to have a passion behind it,” he advises. “And you have to have a love for life.”Hewlett’s passion for care has not only shaped his career but also his approach to leadership. “As a leader, one of the big challenges was getting the right people around me. That’s the only way that I was ever going to achieve the objectives that I had for the care home from the outset,” he shares. The Ideal Leader in the Care SectorIn the care sector, Kevin believes that leadership is about more than just managing people. It’s about inspiring them to continuously develop and improve. “First and foremost, being ethical, having good ethics and integrity is paramount,” he says. “My values are to ensure that my clients and my staff and the clients’ health and well-being is uplifted and they have meaningful lives.”Hewlett’s approach to leadership is rooted in his belief in the power of personal development. “I think it’s about being a good coach,” he explains. “If you inspire people to continuously develop and improve, you’re gonna be surrounded by people that showcase your leadership.”This focus on development extends to his staff at Hale Place. “I’ve been blessed with having good people around me,” he says. “I understood the value of training and development, so I went into that area of work as well, again whilst running the care home side by side with a training company.”Hewlett’s commitment to development has led to a culture of continuous learning within his organisation. “We’ve probably got the highest percentage of employees with a Level 3 qualification within a care home within the country,” he shares. “And then I’ve got a lady now who’s come to us to ask to go to Level 4 and she’s starting in September.”But it’s not just about qualifications. Hewlett believes in the importance of recognising potential and creating opportunities for his staff. “Occasionally we create jobs that don’t exist,” he says. “So if we see someone with great potential and we want to motivate and inspire, we’ll just create the senior position anyway and get an extra one in.”Challenges in the Care SectorKevin is no stranger to the challenges that the care sector faces. “We know that financing and staffing have never been on a path of where they should be to provide quality care,” he explains. “You can’t do that without staff, which we’re short of anyway. But you can’t do that without money because in dementia care, that’s more of a one-to-one or one-to-two staff ratio.”Despite these challenges, Hewlett remains committed to providing quality care for his clients. “We are privately funded. But when someone’s money runs out, we do not move them on, that’s inhumane,” he says. “If you move someone with dementia to another care home at a mid or late stage, that can be amazingly distressing.”Hewlett’s approach to these challenges is truly rewarding, as demonstrated through the success of Hale Place. “We are regarded as one of the premier providers in the country for giving meaningful lives to people with dementia.”Kevin Hewlett: A Legacy of Inspiration and AchievementWhen it comes to a legacy, Kevin has a clear vision. “I would hope that I’ve made a positive difference to people’s lives and to all those staff that I could inspire and help develop.”Hewlett takes pride in the fact that many of his staff have gone on to other careers within the care sector, attributing their success to the development and support they received at Hale Place. “We’ve developed people into nursing, the NHS, management positions, and other care homes,” he shares.Looking back at the numerous awards his organisation has received, Hewlett sees them as a testament to the hard work and dedication of his team. “One of the most gratifying things is just looking down there and seeing how many people in my organisation have contributed to a list of 24 awards,” he says. “A lot of staff with these awards say that if they weren’t in an organisation that believed, supported, and developed them, they wouldn’t have achieved the things that they have.”As he looks towards the future, Hewlett remains committed to making a difference in the care sector. His legacy, he hopes, will be one of inspiration, development, and meaningful change. “If that’s not inspirational, well, what is?”</div>

Kevin Hewlett exemplifies what it means to overcome adversity. From living in squats to working within banking, Hewlett eventually found himself at the forefront of the care sector. Now, Kevin is one of the UK's most successful leaders at the helm of Hale Place Care Solutions.

Kevin Hewlett: An Sturdy Journey to the Pinnacle of Care

Education 

In October, the Caldecott Foundation – a specialist care and education provider to vulnerable children and young people – held its 2022 Achievement Awards evening which saw more than 100 staff members attend.

The Caldecott Foundation holds annual Achievement Awards evening

Thanet residents Carol and Derek Moody have been awarded MBEs in the 2022 New Year Honours list for their services to foster care.

Nick Barnett

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The Caldecott Foundation holds annual Achievement Awards evening

Caldecott Fostering couple recognised in 2022 New Year Honours

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Alison Hesketh: Pioneering Dignity and Advocacy in Elderly Care Through TimeFinders

Mark Grogan: The Visionary Head With a Community Focus

The Cornerstone of Property Maintenance: David Bly and Cornerstone Management Services

Kevin Hewlett: An Sturdy Journey to the Pinnacle of Care

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