Natalie Birch

What I Do

I am the General Manager dedicated to creating a safe, supportive, and welcoming environment for residents, relatives and loved ones. I am responsible for overseeing the day-to-day operations of the home ensuring high standards of care ensuring compliance with care regulations. I am passionate to ensure the residents have a safe and friendly environment that they can call Home.

My Experience

I have over 15 years’ experience in the health, social care, hospitality, and luxury property management sectors. I lived in the UAE for several years and managed the Wellbeing Operations in the world -renowned Burj Al Arab Hotel in Dubai. My background in five-star service and attention to detail drives my commitment to delivering exceptional care and creating a warm, dignified environment for the residents and their families. I combine operational excellence with compassion ensuring that every individual feels respected, supported.

About Me

Having lived abroad for many years, I’ve embraced different cultures and experiences that have shaped my love for travel and adventure . A passionate sports enthusiast, I previously played for Brighton & Hove Albion women’s team and taken on endurances challenges including cycling the 7 emirates for charity and most recently completed the London to Brighton Bike Ride, that was always on my bucket list. I thrive on pushing limits and embracing new challenges.

Claire Porter

What I Do

As a Deputy Manager, I work closely with our General Manager as part of the management team. My previous role at Lakeview Grange was Team leader. Leading the team to provide a high standard care to residents and to work alongside their families, which I will continue to do to ensure that Lakeview Grange is one big happy family.

My Experience

I have worked in the care industry for the last 14 years, in the community and within local care homes.

About Me

My family are very important to me, I have two beautiful nieces and nephews who I adore and try to spend as much time with them as I can. Need to mention Alfie, my 14-year-old dog. Alfie is such a good boy who has been by my side over the past 14 years.

If I am not spending time with my family and Alfie, I make time to listen to music, take long walks and visit the gym.

Jan Marples

What I Do

I am the first point of contact for anyone considering becoming a resident at Merriman Grange. I work together with families and friends to ensure that their loved one’s move into our care home is as smooth as possible. Together with my colleagues, I work hard to provide support and reassurance to everyone involved in the process. I represent Merriman Grange in the local area, collaborating with local groups and charities to support our residents and the wider community. I’m very proud that Merriman Grange was recognised recently by the Adur & Worthing Chamber of Commerce for our community engagement

My Experience

I joined the care sector in 2021 as a Client Liaison Manager for a Care Home Group where I was responsible for helping families and residents navigate through the transition into a care home. I have supported several homes across Bucks, Berks, Surrey and Hertfordshire. My aim has always been to deliver the best experience possible for those entering care. Now a resident of Worthing, I am delighted to represent Merriman Grange and Cinnamon Care Collection within Worthing and the surrounding communities. I have worked in front-facing roles for most of my career. I had previously managed customer service teams in both the private and charity sector.

About Me

Moving to Worthing was prompted by the love of the sea. I like nothing more than a long coastal or cliff walk to help me switch off and re-set. My main passion is live music and entertainment. I enjoy attending concerts, festivals, comedy and theatre productions. I’m a real foodie – mainly eating, rather than cooking – and probably watch way too many cooking shows!

Paul McLeod

What I Do

As the Hospitality supervisor at Merriman Grange, I am responsible for ensuring that our residents receive the absolute best service and experience possible in our beautiful new home. I oversee the dining experience and events within the home, ensuring that every detail is perfect and support the team in delivering a first-class service. I am passionate about hospitality so am very much looking forward to welcoming our first residents and helping them settle into their new home.

My Experience

For the majority of my career, I have worked within the contract catering industry where I managed the on-site catering facilities for corporate clients. Prior to my role at Merriman, I worked as Head Chef for a brand-new care home where I very much enjoyed the interaction with the residents which has led to my interest in stepping into a more front of house-based role.

About Me

In my spare time I like to cook, spend time with family and go for long walks in the beautiful Sussex countryside that surrounds us. I am a keen DIY-er so can often be found tackling a new project at home- some more successful than others!

Kate Bateson

What I Do

I’m the Administrator for Merriman Grange where I look after the administration and finance side of things for the home.

My Experience

I worked in the Finance Sector before leaving the City to pursue my dream of becoming Cabin Crew which I did until I left the UK for Australia where I went back to the Finance Sector again. When we returned to the UK some 15 years later, after a couple of roles that fitted around my children, I became the Administration Manager at a Care Home in Falmouth where I worked for nearly 8 years. I thought it was my forever job until we made the decision to move back ‘home’.

About Me

I’m originally from West Sussex and am delighted to be back home after living in Sydney then Falmouth. My passion is sport, particularly following my first love – Brighton & Hove Albion (over the last 40 years they’ve let me down more times than I care to remember, but they are doing ok at the moment!). When I’m not following the football my other loves are my dog (Prince Paddy the Pampered Pooch), my family, catching up with friends, jogging & walking.

Maria Golianova

What I Do

As a Head of Housekeeping at Merriman Grange I like to help creating a home that is comfortable, cosy and kept to the highest standards of hospitality and cleanliness, where our residents feel at home and love to live.

My Experience

Working previously as a Housekeeping Manager in the hotel industry, I have mastered the art of creating spaces that are clean, welcoming, and comforting – a place where people can feel at home, even when they’re far from it.

About Me

I am originally from Slovakia. I love to go back there for a holiday and spend some quality time with my family. I enjoy spending time in nature or on the beach, walking my dog Gucci, reading, watching Friends or survival films.

Zoe Smith

What I Do

As Wellbeing & Lifestyle Coordinator, I’m passionate about creating meaningful, person-centred experiences every day. I love getting to know each individual’s story – understanding their needs, interests, dislikes, and life adventures – so I can help tailor activities that truly bring joy. Whether it’s through a shared smile, a heartfelt conversation, or a fun group session, my goal is to ensure every resident feels welcomed, valued, and engaged. Supporting wellbeing, building connections, and helping people live life to the fullest is what drives me every single day.

My Experience

I have been working in the care industry for over 10 years, and it’s a field that truly holds my heart. My journey began after Studying a Level 3 Health and Social Care qualification at college, which first inspired me to pursue a career supporting others. I started out as a Carer, then progressed to Senior Carer roles within residential care homes – building hands-on experience and forming strong, meaningful relationships with those I supported. About four years ago, I was offered the opportunity to become an Activity Coordinator – and it completely changed my perspective on care. I discovered just how powerful meaningful activities and personal connections can be in enhancing quality of life. Since then, I’ve proudly worked in Wellbeing & Lifestyle roles, focusing on creating joyful, person-centred experiences that empower residents to continue doing what they love, without limitations. Alongside my care work, I also hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Criminology and Sociology. The Sociology aspect of my studies gave me a deeper understanding of the social and environmental factors that can impact a person’s ability to live fully and freely. This knowledge continues to shape the way I support residents today – ensuring they are not only cared for, but truly seen, heard, and celebrated. I absolutely love what I do. Seeing residents smile, share stories, and genuinely enjoy each day brings me so much happiness and pride.

About Me

I’m a naturally enthusiastic, bubbly, and warm-hearted individual who always tries to bring a smile to those around me. Family means the world to me, and I love spending quality time with them whenever I can. Outside of work, I have a deep curiosity about the universe – quite literally! I find joy and peace in stargazing, and I’m fascinated by astrology and space. It’s a hobby that keeps me inspired and constantly learning.
I also have a keen interest in true crime and investigative research. I enjoy independently exploring cold cases and learning about global criminal justice systems, which links back to my academic background in Criminology and Sociology. In my downtime, you’ll often find me watching documentaries or crime series – it’s not just entertainment for me, but a way to better understand human behaviour, social structures, and the world we live in. Whether it’s through meaningful connections at work or personal passions at home, I’m someone who loves learning, connecting, and making everyday count.