Meet the team
We are aware of the important role staff play in the resident’s welfare and we therefore employ staff with the relevant mix of skills to meet the residents needs. All caring staff complete regular training courses to a high standard and are always happy to help. Meet our friendly and approachable team…
Heidi Haddow
Proprietor
Heidi has a wealth of experience in the health and social care sector, including working as a manager of a care home prior to becoming the proprietor of Eridge House. In Heidi’s words… “I have had the privilege of owning Eridge House since 1988. I have lived in Bexhill for most of my life and for ten years I held the post as a trustee for two local charities which I found most rewarding. One of my biggest achievements is seeing the development of Eridge House from the registration of fourteen in 1988 to that of forty-three older people today. Embracing the changing ways in which we work, and the diverse and skilled team led by our Directors and Managers”.
Laura Witham
Director
Laura is responsible for managing the management team and working closely with Heidi to oversee the running of Eridge House as a business, alongside Nicole. In Laura’s words… “My first ever job was at Eridge House as a teenager. I went on to become a Care Assistant here, obtained my NVQ Level 2 in Health & Social Care, and after a few years away I returned as manager in 2018 until 2022 alongside Nicole. I thoroughly enjoyed my role here as manager and am thrilled to remain working at Eridge House, now in the role of Director. I have achieved my NVQ Level 5 in Leadership & Management in Health & Social Care and have experience working in both a care home setting and as a domiciliary care provider. Working at Eridge House has always felt special. People often comment on the homely and friendly feel and that is something the entire team is dedicated to providing for all residents and their loved ones”.
Nicole Witham
Director
Nicole is responsible for managing the management team and working closely with Heidi to oversee the running of Eridge House as a business, alongside Laura. In Nicole’s words… “When I was offered the job of Supper Assistant at the age of 14 at Eridge House I never imagined that I would become a Director here alongside my sister, Laura. After travelling and acquiring various work experience, I was delighted to return to Eridge House, first in the role of Accounts Manager, to then go on to become the Registered Manager, and now a Director. The friendly atmosphere makes Eridge an enjoyable place to work alongside our dynamic team. My role requires commitment, dedication, and diversity and this is incredibly rewarding. I have obtained my NVQ Level 5 in Leadership & Management in Health & Social Care”.
Rhia Laloo
Registered Manager
Rhia is responsible for all aspects of the day-to-day running of Eridge House. In Rhia’s words… “I started working at Eridge House during the first COVID-19 lockdown. I had every intention of staying on board as bank staff and returning to my old job, however when I was offered the role of Assistant Manager I couldn’t say no, I loved the homely feel and knew I would be happy here with such a good team around me and lovely residents. I have achieved my NVQ Level 5 in Leadership & Management in Health & Social Care and can’t wait to apply this to my role as manager”.
Marie Freeman
Assistant Manager
Marie assists Rhia with managing the home and provides support to our Care Assistants as part of her job role. In Marie’s words… “I joined the Eridge House team in 2019 as a Senior Care Assistant and am thrilled to have progressed to the role of Assistant Manager, with the support of an amazing management team. I have worked in care for over 15 years and have gained my Level 3 NVQ in Health & Social Care and my NVQ Level 5 in Leadership & Management in Health & Social Care”.
Samantha Jenner
Assistant Manager
Alongside Marie, Samantha is responsible for assisting Rhia to manage the home and provide support to our Care Assistants in their role. “From the young age of 13, I found myself drawn to caring. I started out as a tea girl in a residential home but what I hadn’t realised then was that it was a calling for a lifelong career. I have gained my Level 3 NVQ in Health & Social Care and Dementia qualifications and stepped into more complex roles and eventually into leadership. After working my way up the chain, I am now Assistant Manager. I really love working at Eridge House, especially the wonderful team and lovely residents”
Janet Towner
Finance & HR Manager
Janet is responsible for the financial aspects of running Eridge house and provides support on Human Resources matters for the team.
“I joined the Eridge House team in 2024 after working in the financial industry for 40 years and have really enjoyed getting to know the team and all the residents. I have worked with small businesses in my previous role and in the voluntary sector for so I hope this experience will benefit my contribution to Eridge House. I am happy to help residents and families navigate the journey of care home funding and reduce the worry during their dealings with us. There is such a lovely family feel here and everyone has welcomed me, staff and residents alike, it’s a pleasure to come to work each day.”
Sue Bowden
Compliance Manager
Sue is responsible for making sure that Eridge House fully complies with all the relevant laws & regulations within the Health & Social Care Industry.
“I joined Eridge in April 2025 having worked in the financial industry for 33 years with the last 7 years working within the NHS in an administrative role. Eridge has a lovely, homely feel and there is a great Management team & amazing, caring staff who go over and above to make sure the residents needs are met on a daily basis. I love interacting with the residents and watching all the daily activities that are put on for them which they really enjoy.”