This January, Andrea James, Quality Assurance Lead in Wales, celebrated an incredible 20 years of service. Since joining the organisation in 2006, Andrea has supported people and services across Wales, playing a key role in the development and quality of services and supporting teams to deliver high standards of care.
Andrea joined the organisation after being offered the opportunity to become a Registered Manager within a newly formed service. Although initially hesitant to take the step — particularly while balancing family life as a single parent— she was inspired by the organisation’s values and leadership.
Throughout her career, Andrea has supported the development of services in Wales, including helping to open new residential homes. Over the years, she has been supported to grow her knowledge and experience, progressing through a variety of roles including Training Assessor, Health & Safety Manager and, most recently, Quality Assurance Lead.
Reflecting on her journey, Andrea says: “I can’t believe it’s been 20 years! I’ve been given the opportunity to grow my knowledge and experience of working with adults within our care, developing my role through training, health and safety and quality assurance. When I joined, I supported the opening of the third residential home, and being part of the organisation as it continued to grow over the years has been a great honour.”
For Andrea, the most meaningful moments come from seeing the people we support living happy, fulfilled lives and creating opportunities for memorable experiences. One standout moment involved supporting individuals in Wales to explore Welsh heritage through a creative woodwork project.
“When I saw the plaques the individuals had made representing the six nations, it gave me an idea. I approached the WRU and, between us, arranged for the people we support to have a tour of the stadium, a kick about on the field and a day they’ll never forget,” she explains.
Andrea is also proud of her involvement in registering and setting up new services: “Supporting with registration and setting up new services is always something I am proud of — especially when individuals move in and call it their own home.”
Some of the most rewarding moments for Andrea are the simplest.
“When individuals come up to me saying they missed me and can’t wait to tell me all the things they’ve been up to — that’s what it’s all about.”
When asked what advice she would give to someone starting their career, Andrea says:
“Don’t think of it as a job. Enjoy it, embrace it and you will have a fulfilling career that gives back more than it takes.”
After 20 years, Andrea says her motivation remains strong. “I’m so grateful to be part of a company that has the same values and principles that I have, and the passion for making a difference in people’s lives. The staff and management teams are amazing — they don’t always realise just how much of a difference they make.”
Thank you, Andrea, for your dedication, passion and commitment over the past 20 years, and for the positive impact you continue to make across services in Wales.
