Michelle David, Home Manager at Ashton Lodge since 2022, displays a firm dedication and passion for the care sector. Her leadership capabilities have been instrumental in establishing two domiciliary care businesses, transforming them into million-pound enterprises. Michelle’s journey in the care sector has been marked by continuous growth and learning, from gaining extensive knowledge in nursing, dementia, and residential care to delving into clinical management. Her commitment to turning around failing homes and achieving good ratings from the Care Quality Commission demonstrates her unwavering dedication to the sector.

Under Michelle’s leadership, Ashton Lodge has undergone significant transformation. Michelle came at a time when the home had been without a manager for eight months and had faced less than favourable CQC inspections. When she arrived, the home began receiving positive feedback from quality assurance visits, residents and relatives, indicating a satisfactory performance. 

Amongst the changes, one of Michelle’s key initiatives has been to reintegrate residents into the community by reviving the use of the home’s minibus to take residents on outings. Innovative approaches also include enhancing the home’s atmosphere by installing speakers in all corridors to play music throughout the day.

Education and Early Career Summary

Michelle David’s educational background in psychology laid the foundation for her career and would prove instrumental in developing her leadership style, particularly within team dynamics and individual behaviour. However, it was her personal experience of caring for her terminally ill grandfather that led her to the care sector. 

Starting as a dementia support worker, Michelle provided stimulating activities for patients, marking the beginning of her career in care. Her commitment and skill soon earned her the opportunity to pursue a registered manager’s award and an NVQ level 4 in health and social care. This marked the beginning of a rapid ascent in her career, with swift progression from team leader to senior coordinator, and then into management within a span of just a few years. 

Prior to joining Ashton Lodge, Michelle specialised in providing business support management, consultancy and troubleshooting, turning around failing homes, bringing them into compliance and earning good ratings from the Care Quality Commission.