What began as a rainy visit to a client has blossomed into a remarkable 25-year career for Michelle Yates, who now serves as Operations Manager at Coverage Care Services, overseeing five of the organisation’s 11 care homes across Shropshire.
Michelle’s journey started in the late 2001 when she was working as a self-employed care assistant.
One of her clients had moved into the then Summercroft Residential Home, and Michelle went to visit. ‘It was a very wet and grey day, she remembers, but the welcome I received was absolutely wonderful. I thought to myself, oh my goodness, I think I could work here.’
Soon after, she joined the Summercroft residential home as a relief carer - the first step in a career defined by compassion, leadership, and growth.
Michelle later moved to Coverage Care’s newly opened Barclay Gardens in Telford, where she quickly progressed from shift leader to deputy manager, and eventually to home manager - in 2009 Michelle also supported other homes within Coverage Care.
In 2022, Michelle was appointed Operations Manager, a role in which she now supports five homes, helping to guide teams and ensure the highest standards of care.
When asked why Michelle has worked for Coverage Care for so long she replied, “It’s all about the people, ‘Michelle says.
‘Working with staff who have different skill sets and tapping into the strengths they bring. All my deputies have now become managers themselves - the career progression here is fantastic.’
She credits Coverage Care’s supportive culture for her success. ‘From day one, if you wanted to do something, the company would pay for your training. It’s a fantastic company to work for. There isn’t anyone who isn’t supportive.’
Michelle also praises the leadership of Chief Executive Debbie Price. ‘Since Debbie has been with us, you wouldn’t know she was the Chief Executive - she mucks in like anyone else, doing whatever needs to be done.’
As Michelle celebrates 25 years with Coverage Care, her story stands as a shining example of dedication, opportunity, and the power of people-first care.
