More than a Business
Lavender Joy Live-in Care was founded on my personal life experiences, which revealed to me just how important compassion, patience, and the maintenance of a person’s dignity are.
My journey into care began unexpectedly when my father, Frank, developed severe sciatica after a fall and suddenly found himself struggling with daily life.
At the time, I was working for myself, which allowed me the flexibility to support and care for him during a very difficult season.
Looking back, it was a blessing for our family to walk that journey together and to ensure he was cared for with dignity, patience, and love in the comfort of his own home.
Two years later, life presented another challenge when my husband, Tony, suffered from an accident at work, resulting in hospitalisation followed by several months of recovery at home.
Once again, I stepped into the role of caregiver. During this time, my husband encouraged me to pursue formal training, recognising the natural compassion and patience I brought to our situation.
After completing care training, I travelled to the United Kingdom to provide care, supporting a 96-year-old lady living independently in her own home and providing her with comfort and peace of mind.
And so, my caring journey was born, giving me the opportunity to care (fulfilling my dream to care) for so many different people in need, with a skill set that enables me to do so professionally.
This journey not only allowed me to grow professionally and personally, but also gave me
precious time with my mother, who had relocated back to the United Kingdom after spending most of her life in Africa.
Our family story itself has a history of British, Zimbabwean, and South African connections. My mother, Anna, at the tender age of five, together with my grandmother, Molly, relocated from the United Kingdom to Zimbabwe after the Second World War to join family who had also relocated, before later settling in sunny Port Elizabeth, South Africa.
My father, Frank, was of Irish descent.
Before entering the care industry, I spent many years working in civil construction, interior decorating, and real estate. Although I valued the experience and skills gained, I eventually realised that caring for people in need was where my true passion and purpose in life lay.
Being able to support someone who can no longer fully manage on their own — being their helping hand and often a trusted companion — brings me immense fulfilment and joy.
Throughout my caring journey, I came to understand that the relationship among all parties involved — the Client, their Family, Health Care Supporters, and the Carer — is essential. When communication and trust are at the forefront, the care experience becomes far more positive and enriching for everyone involved, which creates a healthier and safer environment.
However, I also experienced times when this important connection was lacking. A live-in Carer often leaves behind their own home, family, and familiar surroundings to care for someone else in theirs. Without proper support, guidance, and communication, a Carer can sometimes feel isolated or lost within the system, despite carrying enormous responsibility and giving so much of themselves emotionally and physically each day.
Lavender Joy Live-in Care was created with the desire to provide a more personal, supportive, dignified, and compassionate approach to live-in care — not only for Clients and their families, but equally for the Carers themselves.
Through Lavender Joy Live-in Care, I strive to carefully match suitable Carers with Clients, recognising that Carers who are fully trained and compatible with their client are just as important as practical care experience. I believe in maintaining regular communication, offering ongoing feedback and guidance, and supporting Clients in the best way possible to help them continue living independently and comfortably, with dignity in their own homes.
Equally important is providing continuous support to the Carers, who work tirelessly to create a harmonious environment of trust, companionship, dignity, and care — often within challenging and emotional circumstances. Their role is not simply a job; it is a commitment that deserves appreciation, encouragement, and support.
The name “Lavender Joy” reflects calmness, peace, and the small moments of joy that make life worth living. At the heart of Lavender Joy Live-in Care is the belief that everyone deserves to feel supported, respected, loved, and genuinely cared for, especially in their final years, when life becomes more challenging. We strive to give them joy and peace, not the worry of being a burden, but rather the comfort of a loved relative being cared for.
Our mission is simple: Helping people maintain their independence in their familiar surroundings, enabling them to live well at home.
Toni Pote
Founder