Celebrating Men in Care This International Men’s Day
November 19th marks this year’s International Men’s Day, a day dedicated to recognising the positive impact men have on their families, communities, and workplaces. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Men and Boys,” encourages us to highlight the achievements of men and showcase positive role models.
At Orchard Care Homes, our male colleagues break stereotypes and demonstrate that compassionate, person-centred care knows no gender.
We spoke with some of our inspiring team members about what motivated them to enter the care sector and what continues to fuel their passion for their work.
For Thabani Siziba, a Registered Nurse at Three Bridges, his care journey was inspired by personal experience. “As a child, I lost my grandfather to diabetes. Watching the family patriarch reduce to a shadow of himself and feeling powerless is what inspired me to get into care,” he explained. Thabani, who has worked at the home for nearly four years, says one of the most rewarding parts of his job is building strong relationships with residents and their families.
His advice to other men thinking about a career in care is simple: “Just try it – it’s spiritually rewarding. I’ve never worked in such a healthy, supportive environment.”
Care Assistant Vilian Krustev, also based at Three Bridges, shared a similar motivation. "I’ve always wanted to make a difference and support those in need," he said. What surprised him most about the role was how much he learns from the residents. “The stories and wisdom they share are invaluable. It’s a privilege to care for them.”
Vilian believes that representation is key in the care sector. “Men make up almost half of care home residents, and many feel more comfortable being cared for by people of the same gender.
At Ashlea Mews, Chefs Clive Burdon and Daniel Thomas Scott bring care and creativity to the kitchen every day. Both were drawn to the sector for the flexibility and sense of purpose it provides. “I wanted the flexibility to spend more time with my family,” said Daniel. Clive agreed, adding, “The hours are great, and you really feel part of something meaningful.” For both, preparing meals is about more than food - it’s about creating comfort, familiarity, and joy for residents.
Mark Ward, Director of Estates, joined our team 15 months ago from a background in construction and facilities management. He was drawn to the care sector for its sense of purpose and opportunity. “It feels like a growth sector – as the population ages and people live longer, there’s an increasing need for new specialisms and opportunities. Even for someone from a construction background, there’s a chance to contribute meaningfully,” he said. Mark describes his work as challenging but deeply fulfilling. “It’s hard work, but it’s rewarding - both materially and consciously. You’re doing a job that genuinely gives people a better quality of life.”
Across our group, men are integral to creating supportive, inclusive environments where compassion, respect, and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do. They show that care is a profession built on empathy and dedication.
This International Men’s Day, we want to take a moment to thank all the men across our business for the incredible kindness, professionalism, and positivity they bring to our residents and colleagues every day. So, from all of us – THANK YOU!
If you’ve ever considered a career that makes a real difference, now is the perfect time to explore the possibilities within the care sector. Join a team that values empathy, teamwork, and personal growth - just like Thabani, Vilian, Clive, Daniel, and Mark.
Visit www.orchardcarehomes.com/careers to learn more about career opportunities near you. Join our team, and help shape the future of care.
