As part of our Meet the Team series, we spoke with Paula Gue, our Operations Manager...
*Your Journey & Role*
What first drew you to a career in social care, and how did you come to work with Peninsula Care Homes?
I’ve always been passionate about caring for others and making a difference in people’s lives, which is what first led me into nursing and, later, social care. Joining Peninsula Care Homes felt like a natural step because of its strong values and commitment to providing high-quality, person-centred care.
As Operations Manager, how would you describe your role in supporting our homes and home managers day-to-day?
My role is about being a partner and support system for our Home Managers. I hopefully help them navigate challenges, celebrate successes, and ensure they have the tools, resources, and guidance they need to focus on what matters most — excellent care for our residents.
You started your career as a Registered Nurse — how has that experience shaped your journey and prepared you for your role as Operations Manager?
Working as a nurse has given me firsthand insight into the day-to-day realities of care. It’s taught me empathy, resilience, and the importance of teamwork. Those experiences continue to guide my leadership style, as I understand the pressures staff face and can support them with both compassion and practical solutions.
*Leadership & Quality*
What do you enjoy most about working closely with Home Managers and their teams?
I really enjoy seeing how passionate and dedicated our teams are. Every home has its own unique strengths, and I love collaborating with managers to build on those and share best practices. It’s rewarding to be part of their journey and to see their hard work positively impact residents’ lives.
Peninsula Care Homes aims for “Good” and “Outstanding” ratings — what steps do you take to support homes in achieving these standards?
For me, it’s about creating a culture of continuous improvement. I am working closely with managers to identify areas of strength and where we can grow, offering guidance, training, and practical support. I am also making sure quality isn’t just about meeting standards but about truly enhancing the lived experience of residents.
*Operational Focus*
Your role spans occupancy, budgets, and refurbishment projects — what’s the most rewarding part of balancing all these responsibilities?
I enjoy the variety and the fact that every day brings a different challenge. The most rewarding part is knowing that each decision, whether financial or operational, ultimately helps create a better environment for both residents and staff.
How do you ensure homes remain compliant with regulations while also feeling warm, welcoming, and homely?
Compliance is essential, but it should never come at the cost of warmth. I work with managers to make sure systems and processes are robust, while also encouraging creative touches that make each home feel personal and inviting. It’s about finding the right balance between safety, quality, and comfort.
*Vision & Inspiration*
What do you see as the biggest opportunity for social care providers like Peninsula Care Homes in the years ahead?
I think the biggest opportunity lies in innovation — whether that’s through new technologies, staff development, or creative approaches to resident engagement. By being open to change and forward-thinking, we can continue to raise standards and enrich the lives of those we care for.
What inspires you most about working in care, and what would you say to someone considering joining our teams?
What inspires me most is the difference we make every single day. Even small gestures can have a HUGE impact on residents and their families. To anyone thinking of joining, I’d say it’s a career full of purpose and reward. You’ll be part of a team that supports one another and makes a meaningful difference in people’s lives and I personally would not want to work anywhere else.
