Surrey-based charity Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society and its care home Belvedere House are celebrating International Women’s Day by recognising the vital contributions of their female staff members.
The Society, which provides exceptional care for retired seafarers, their dependents and the local community, is using this occasion to highlight the achievements of women in the care industry while also emphasising the importance of gender balance in the workforce.
Women play a critical role in the smooth running of the Society – from providing hands-on care to residents, to overseeing operations and leading the team, they are crucial in every part of the organisation. According to Skills for Care, the number of women working in care has been gradually declining in recent years, from 82% in 2017 to 79% in 2024. Despite this trend, at the Society, women make up 76% of the workforce, 67% of the Senior Management Team, and 63% of the Heads of Department, highlighting the care home’s commitment to maintaining a diverse and inclusive work environment.
Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society embraces a diverse workforce, welcoming individuals from all backgrounds who share passion for providing care. Maria Jobson, Executive Assistant to the CEO, reflects on her motivation: “Even though I’m not on the care side, I knew I could contribute positively to the Royal Alfred. As a veteran with a serving brother in the Royal Navy, I wanted to give back to the generation that gave so much for us.”
Alice Mitroi, Clinical Manager and Registered Home Manager, adds: “I pursued a career in care because I love working with people, and every day, we’re making a real difference in our residents’ lives. The fact that I’ll have worked 11 years in care in April is a testament to that. To encourage more people to the industry, we need to show that social care careers are just as rewarding as NHS roles – it’s all about improving lives, wherever you work!”
Coming from a family of carers, Ifeoma Onyeharam, Clinical Home Trainer, brings a deep understanding of the profession. She believes that nursing is more than just a job, it’s a calling: “Being a nurse must come from the heart. You must be willing to go above and beyond to care and give respect to patients, even in the most challenging circumstances.”
For leadership roles to be more accessible to both men and women in the care industry, the most important aspect will be investing in training. This will build a carer pathway for staff and boost their confidence to take on a leadership role.
The Society offers a comprehensive programme of employee training which ensures that all members of staff have the necessary qualifications and skills to progress in their careers. These training opportunities empower women working in care, helping them advance professionally and feel valued, which isn’t always the case. This commitment not only supports career growth but also maintains a high standard of care for residents.
Jantimar Wiggins, Management Accountant, emphasises the emotional rewards: “Strong leadership in care is essential, as leaders set the standard for how we care for people. Their compassion and empathy influence the entire organisation. To attract more women (and men) to pursue leadership roles in care, we need to offer more flexible working options that support childcare or other family commitments.”
David Dominy, CEO at the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, said: “Today, we’re shining a light on the amazing women who make up a significant part of Royal Alfred’s workforce. Their dedication, compassion, and skills are invaluable. At the same time, we’re committed to creating a diverse team that reflects the community we serve.”
About The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society
The award-winning Belvedere House has provided nursing, respite and dementia care to former seafarers, their widows, dependants, and the local community for nearly 160 years.
To find out more about the work of The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, please visit its website at www.royalalfredseafarers.co.uk. To keep up to date with the latest news from the Society, follow the Facebook page.
