Our staff team comprises a Registered Manager, Deputy Manager, Support Co-ordinator, Senior Support Worker, Support Workers, Cook, Cleaners, Administrator/Operations Assistant, Facilities Manager, Freelance Gardeners and Sessional Workers.
Staff are selected for experience, qualifications, relevant qualities and for their personal interest.
We provide a programme of on-going training and send staff on external training courses including specialist programmes.
Director: Bernadine Pritchett
It was in 2003 that my affair with High Oaks began when I purchased it from the previous owner. I loved that it was independent, peaceful and spacious with a beautiful big garden and it felt like a real home where people with mental health needs and learning disabilities were being supported rather than a clinical mental health unit.
I worked with the staff to build up the home’s reputation and their ability to successfully support residents with severe and complex mental health needs. Many improvements to the service and the building have been made over the years.
I am passionate about High Oaks and helping people on their life journey.
Manager: Jason Powdrill (registration pending)
Main Areas of Responsibility:
Responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day operations, including recruiting and managing staff teams and ensuring that the quality of the services provided meets national care standards.
Having worked in health and social care for nearly 21 years, I am proud to serve as Home Manager at High Oaks, where I continue to share my knowledge, experience, and commitment to delivering high-quality care. I am passionate about healthcare and value the opportunity to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. My career began in 2005 as a support worker in a residential setting. I then gained experience within a medium secure unit before progressing into community care, where I held supervisory roles delivering supported living services for individuals with learning disabilities and autism. These roles built a strong foundation in person-centred care, leadership, and service delivery.
I later moved into managing private care packages, leading small teams and supporting individuals across the UK and Europe. This broadened my perspective and strengthened my ability to deliver tailored care in varied environments.
My journey then led me to High Oaks as Deputy Manager, marking my first role focused on mental health care. I was drawn to its ethos of providing a safe and supportive home where individuals can receive both short- and long-term support.
Alongside my experience, I have completed a Level 5 Diploma in Leadership and Management for Adult Care, safeguarding training, and clinical skills such as venepuncture.
I am also a member of a steering committee focused on developing new brain scan technology, contributing to innovation in understanding and supporting complex conditions. I have a particular interest in neurological conditions, including encephalitis and alternating hemiplegia of childhood.
Reflecting on my career, I compare it to climbing a mountain—gaining experience across varied settings and building a well-rounded skill set. As a Home Manager, I now bring this together to lead effectively and continue striving for excellence in care.
Deputy Manager: Rebecca Mandley
I’m Rebecca and I’m so happy to be appointed as the new Deputy Manager at High Oaks. I have developed here at High Oaks and worked my way up to the role I have today.
I found my vocation a little later in life after completing a degree in Social Psychology. Working my way through each module I knew mental health was the path I wanted to take. I started to work at High Oaks in 2020 as a support worker and really enjoyed working with others and making a positive difference to their lives, it’s something I’m incredibly passionate about.
I wanted to progress my career and High Oaks gave me that opportunity. I completed a Level 3 in Health and Social Care and was promoted to Senior Support in 2021. I have been working hard to make a difference to the lives of our residents, implementing a person-centred approach and ensuring they are happy and feel safe here at High Oaks.
I have continued to progress and am currently working now on my Level 4 in Health and Social Care, using further information and advice taken from it which positively impacts our residents. I enjoy learning new things and will continue to develop and I look forward to be able to start my Level 5 in the future.
In my spare time I enjoy being outside walking the dog or playing sports, such as netball. I also really enjoy watching a good game of rugby. I have to throw my love of Disney in there as well!
Specialist Workers / Therapists
We engage specialist workers/therapists providing input, both on and off-site, in subjects such as arts and crafts, singing and music, fitness, woodwork, reflexology.
See Activities & Therapies page for more details
