Meet the Team

Caroline Cowland | Home Manager

I started my career as a staff nurse for the NHS and went on to work in varied nursing roles from immunising children to elderly care. In recent years I moved into the care sector where I have worked as a nurse, clinical Deputy Manager and Home Manager. I am passionate about good quality care for our residents leading with care and compassion.

Before becoming Home Manager at Steeton Court, in my first six months at Spellman Care I worked across all four homes as Quality Assurance Officer to ensure we are compliant, safe, and providing quality care. I love meeting with the residents in our care and getting to know them as individuals and seeing what we can do to make their lives the best it can be.

In my spare time I love to hike and can be found up many of the famous peaks in the country! I have two young boys who also keep me busy and I like to go out for days with them.

Samantha Tayler | Deputy Manager

Hi, my name is Samantha, I am the Deputy Manager here at Steeton Court.

I joined Spellman Care in 2021. I obtained my Bsc Hons in Adult Nursing at Ulster University in 2011 as a mature student. My career in nursing has focused on Elderly Care, especially Palliative Care.

I enjoy working at Steeton Court, we have a great team throughout the home, I love seeing residents smile and enjoying their time with us, it is very rewarding knowing that we as a team make a difference to our residents.

In my spare time I enjoy spending time with family, playing hockey and visiting places of interest (and no not the pub)! I have been camping all over the UK, Ireland and parts of Europe.

Rachael Houldsworth | Senior Administrator

Hello, my name is Rachael and I have been the senior Administrator at Steeton Court since we opened in 1990. I thoroughly enjoy my work here, working within a great team, supporting our lovely residents and getting to know families and friends. I am always available to offer help and support.

Joanne Carey | Cavendish Unit Manager

Hi, I am Jo, the Unit manager for Cavendish Community.

I have been nursing for over 30 years, the past 8 of those in the care home sector. I joined Steeton Court in July 2024 on nights, before moving onto the day shift in early 2025.

I love working with the elderly, to ensure everyone is cared for in a person centred, holistic way, so that all residents live their best lives.

In my spare time, I love football, and spending quality time with my family, my dog, and my parrot.

Sue Roberts | Harewood Unit Manager

Hello my name is Sue, I am the Unit Manager for Harewood.

I have been a nurse for many years and joined the team at Steeton Court in 2018. My passion is working with the residents who have been diagnosed with dementia, I find it very rewarding.

I like to ensure that the residents are supported in a holistic way, ensuring that their lives are enriched.

Craig McCarthy | Head Chef

My name is Craig McCarthy. I'm the Head Chef here at Steeton Court Nursing Home. I studied at Cambridge College, achieving a Level 2 NVQ in Professional Cookery and a Level 3 NVQ in Management. I have over 13 years of experience in Care Home catering.

I love to see residents enjoying their meals, and am proud to improve their nutritional balance.

In my spare time, I love spending time with my 3 daughters and exploring the local countryside on my motorbike.

Kirby Cook | Sous Chef

Hi, my name is Kirby and I am the Chef here at Steeton Court. I love baking and creating things for the residents. In my spare time I enjoy the gym, travelling and spending time with my wife and 3 cats!

Geraldine Price | Head Housekeeper

My name is Geraldine and I am the Head Housekeeper at Steeton Court. I have worked within the home since 2013 and have loved every minute of it. To me, Steeton Court is home from home.

I am very proud of my team, they work to maintain high standards of infection control and hygiene, in order to maintain the safety of our residents.

Kirstie Beard | Activity Coordinator

I joined the team at Steeton Court in early 2025 and quicky built strong relationships with the staff, residents and relatives.

I consider myself a friendly and approachable person, who's confidence can encourage residents to join in and express themselves in activities.

My role as Activities Coordinator focuses on helping residents to access activities throughout the home, either in groups or to take part in an activity on a one to one basis. I always treat everyone with dignity and respect and as equals. I feel a sense of reward and achievement after seeing the residents smile. It's nice to see their faces light up as I offer something new and exciting that they can take part in.

My hobbies include skiing and snowboarding, and I really enjoy socialising with my friends and family on a weekend too.

Sarah Oddy | Activity Coordinator

Hello, I'm Sarah!

With 25 years experience in creative fields, I'm dedicated to developing dynamic and engaging activity programs. My expertise in crafting, design, and conceptual development contribute to a vibrant and enriching environment here at Steeton Court. My primary goal is to foster a community where every resident feels valued and included, creating lasting, positive experiences.

Philip Hobson | Activities Driver

My name is Phil Hobson, and I'm the Activities Driver for Spellman Care.

Before starting at Spellman Care, I spent 16 years at the Sue Ryder Manorlands Hospice, where I was Head Gardener and Head of Maintenance.

I joined Spellman Care at Springbank Care Home in March 2024, initially working in maintenance, before successfully transitioning to my current position across the group.

I thoroughly enjoy driving residents on outings to various destinations, working as part of the Spellman Care Activities Team.

Outside of work, I'm a keen guitarist, composer, and music producer. I'm also a co-organizer of "Groovy Happening," a music event based in Howarth that has been running for 13 years. We've raised over £55,000 for Manorlands Hospice to date.

Tony Houldsworth | Maintenance Person

Hello, I’m Tony.

I became the Maintenance Person at Steeton Court in June 2023. My previous work life is mainly in engineering, although I do have experience and knowledge of the tasks involved in my Maintenance role.

I enjoy my job, and it’s great how no two days are ever the same. I enjoy meeting our residents and their families, Steeton Court is just a lovely environment to work in.

Shayne Espende | Nurse

Hi, I am Shayne, one of the Staff Nurses at Steeton Court.

I love working with the elderly, ensuring their well-being through compassionate and person-centred support.

Outside of work, I enjoy travelling to different countries and exploring new places. I have a passion for water sports, especially diving and snorkelling!

Jan Storey | Senior Carer

Ernest Anikpe | Carer

My name is Ernest. I began my career as a physiotherapy assistant in a private clinic, gaining experience in both clinical and community settings. I supported physiotherapists and the management team, playing a vital role in the medical rehabilitation of physically impaired and geriatric patients.

I am deeply passionate about care work, a role for which I believe I have a natural aptitude. My career in care is driven by compassion, and I find joy in every day.

Working at Steeton Court has been incredibly rewarding, providing opportunities for professional development within a diverse, serene, and well-organized environment.

In my spare time, I enjoy playing football, spending time outdoors, and cherishing quality moments with my beloved wife and three children.