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Experience You Can Trust
Celebrating over 30 years in quality care
Experience You Can Trust
Celebrating over 30 years in quality care
Resident's Interview
Iris came to live at George Brooker House in July 2023. We asked Iris how she was finding life in the home.
Where were you born?
I was born at home in Dempsey Street in Stepney, London in 1927.
Tell us a little about your life
I was one of two children to my parents Leonard and Charlotte Ellis. My brother Claud was 15 months older than me. I lived in Stepney for the first five years of my life; We then moved to Dagenham where I started school at Dorothy Barley. I did not see school through as we moved back to Stepney when I was around 7-8 years old as my dad did not like travelling back and forth to work. I left school at the age of 14 years old and got my first job as a machinist making dresses during the war. I made some really good friends whilst working there for 6 years but I had to leave due to ill-health. I married my husband Edward in 1950 in St Dunstan's Church and we went on to have my daughter Anne. I had a variety of jobs, I worked as a cleaner, tea lady and I done some sewing work at home. I enjoyed my younger years, me and my husband were good together, we liked going to the movies and would enjoy a meal out when going to the seaside.
Iris, Resident
Where were you living prior to George Brooker House?
I was living in Ford Road Dagenham, Dagenham in a very nice one-bedroom flat. I come to George Brooker House in a very nice one-bedroom flat. I came to George Brooker House because I had a fall and broke my hip and was then unable to take care of myself. I enjoyed living in my flat.
How are you finding life at George Brooker House?
I am finding it good really, plenty of food and can do what I like. I have settled in well and really like being here. I like how my room has been made homely with all my pictures of my family on my walls. I like to get involved in group activities but also like spending time relaxing on my own in my bedroom. I enjoy playing bingo, arts and crafts, flower arranging and chair exercises. I really like the monthly entertainment provided by the home as I like a good sing along and dance. I think the home is very nice and has a warm feeling to it.
How do you find the staff at George Brooker House?
I think all the staff are very kind and caring. I have no problem with any of them here. It does not matter what department the staff are from, should it be carer's, kitchen, domestic, activities or management. Everyone is helpful. I am grateful to them all.