Celebrating over a century of dedication at Winehala Court

Employees at Winehala Court in Willenhall are marking a remarkable milestone, collectively reaching over 100 years of dedicated service.

The Extra Care scheme transferred to Housing 21 from the Walsall town council in 2008 and along with it four of its catering employees. Susan Baynham started working in the kitchen at the scheme in 1985 when the first episode of Eastenders aired across the nation and the first mobile phone calls were being made.

(Pictured: Susan Baynham, Vicky Hoadley, Shirley Taylor and Karen Hall)

Susan says: “I started at the scheme just before my 19^th birthday and was apprehensive of taking the post as a Cook; I was so young and had little experience, but it all worked out.

“When I first started, there was only one meal option, and all the food was served on plastic plates, bowls, cups and saucers. All vegetables were pre-plated and stacked in a hot box until lunch time where the matron would serve the meat onto the plate, and I’d add the gravy.”

Other members of the team Vicky Hoadley, Shirley Taylor and Karen Hall have worked at the scheme cumulatively for 79 years.

Karen Hall, also a Cook at the scheme recalls when she first started in 1992: “We had an old-fashioned, large sterilising sink which was gas powered to keep the water boiling, where plates and dishes were put on a rack to be dipped and left to air dry.

“Things have changed over the years; we now serve lunch in the restaurant for residents to purchase if they want to. We also serve their families, and the public for a bite to eat.”

Vicki Hoadley, Assistant Cook also remembers when she first started at the scheme 20 years ago and how her role has adapted: “I started as an assistant cook which entailed peeling vegetables, cooking meals, washing up and cleaning; Now, we do the same but with added skills and use of technology.”  

Shirley Taylor, Assistant Cook says: “It’s good working for Housing 21 as we get to meet all the residents that come for meals and can chat with them.”

The Extra Care scheme owned and operated by Housing 21 is set in enclosed gardens on the outskirts of Willenhall and is located near to shops and amenities. Winehala Court has a communal lounge and a range of on-site facilities including a large car park, a restaurant, and a hairdresser.