03.11.2025 Juanita
From administrator to care home manager to chief operating officer, we celebrate International Women's Day by highlighting Jemma's remarkable career journey in social care
Shining a spotlight on Jemma Robinson, Chief Operating Officer at Person Centred Software
Jemma Robinson, the Chief Operating Officer of our organisation, is a highly skilled and dedicated professional with an impressive track record in the social care sector.
Her career began as an administrator, where she meticulously managed administrative tasks and contributed to the efficient operation of her team.
Through hard work and determination, Jemma advanced to the role of care home manager, where she demonstrated exceptional leadership, monitoring business performance and quality of care and ensuring that residents received the highest standard of care and support.
After holding several managerial roles across various care homes, Jemma is now a Chief Operating Officer at Person Centred Software, where she plays a pivotal role in shaping our strategic vision and operational excellence. Her insights and experience are invaluable in addressing the challenges and opportunities within the social care sector.
In celebration of International Women's Day, we want to shine a light on Jemma's remarkable career journey.
Her progression from an administrator to a key leadership position is a powerful inspiration to all of us, showcasing the importance of perseverance, commitment, and a passion for making a difference in people's lives.
(Where it all started)
How it all started
We join Jemma as she travels back in time to visit Red Hill Care Centre, a care home owned by Minster Care Group, where she began her social care career.
''It's such a strange feeling to be back where it all began. It's been wonderful to return and see some familiar faces after so many years.
One of the things I loved about this place was its warm, homely atmosphere; we really didn't have to work hard to encourage people to come and live here, and it still feels that way today!
Since my return, I've noticed several changes, particularly in the decor. However, the most significant change is that the care home has transitioned from paper to digital. They have implemented our digital social care record system (mCare), Camascope's eMAR software, and Docobo's telehealth system, all helping to enhance safety and streamline processes, allowing care staff more time to deliver care more efficiently and effectively, which is fantastic.
Person Centred Software's digital social care record system, mCare
I began my journey with Red Hill Care Centre in 2008, taking on a role in the administration office. At the time, I viewed this job as a temporary solution—an opportunity to support myself while pursuing my forensic psychology degree. I was here for a couple of years, and during that time, there were quite a lot of changes across management.
As staff members and managers shifted, I was able to step up, take on new responsibilities, and gradually advance in my career. At that time, my regional manager approached me and gave me the opportunity to manage another home. So, I moved to a nursing home not too far away, and that was the first home I managed in my career at the age of 26. It was quite a big step, but I'd experienced and learnt a lot at Red Hill, so I felt ready for it.
Eventually, I discovered a deep passion for working in the social care sector; I became dedicated to positively impacting people's lives. Initially, I had no intention of entering this field, but once I did, I fell in love with it and never looked back."
After discovering my passion for the social care sector
''After managing the care home, I moved to a larger care organisation, supporting multiple homes by troubleshooting and improving their practices. Shortly after, I moved to their head office and joined the business transformation team.
While working there, I really missed being part of frontline care, which plays a vital role in our society. The experiences I gained while working closely with residents and their families remain dear to me, and I truly missed being in that environment - This is one of the aspects I cherish about my current position at Person Centred Software; it grants me the chance to reconnect with all the fantastic care providers and residents out there!
For example, during my visit here today, I had the opportunity to engage with the people I used to work for and directly with the residents. I encountered a resident in the corridor this morning and took a moment to say hello and share a few words. Seeing how such a small interaction could lift their spirits and positively impact their day was heartwarming.
These moments remind me that my role still holds significance even though I'm not directly involved in providing frontline care. I can still positively impact the wellbeing of those in care settings and help enhance the quality of life for residents and care staff by supporting care providers with Person Centred Software's innovative digital solutions.''
My career with Person Centred Software
''About three and a half years ago, I transitioned to Person Centred Software. My experience in care home management was crucial then, as we didn't have many people in the business with that background.
Drawing from my years in the sector, I actively contributed by identifying and articulating the specific needs of care providers and the various challenges they encountered on a day-to-day basis. This allowed the company to better understand the landscape of care services and enabled them to tailor their software solutions to effectively meet the unique demands of the sector.
My insights helped bridge the gap between care providers and the technology being developed, ensuring our software was user-friendly and aligned with the realities of delivering high-quality care.
Since joining PCS, I've had quite a journey. I started as a program manager and then moved on to manage the customer success team. More recently, last year, my role changed to Chief Operating Officer.
I was particularly excited to return to Red Hill Care Centre today, as this was where my journey in care began. Overall, it's been a very interesting and exciting 16 years!''
(A few of my colleagues at Person Centred Software)
We asked Jemma what International Women's Day means to her and why celebrating women in social care is important
International Women's Day is an excellent opportunity to celebrate our achievements and reflect on our challenges. It allows us to take a moment to focus on these important aspects, which we often overlook in our daily routines.
Individuals today face numerous challenges in society. The world is a complex place which presents various difficulties. However, women, in particular, continue to experience significant inequality. For example, many health conditions, such as menopause, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and endometriosis, that affect women are often overlooked in research, leading to a lack of understanding and support, which negatively impacts their lives.
Additionally, there is a notable gender imbalance in senior roles, which can create the perception that women are unable to attain such positions within organisations. This situation is compounded by biases and stereotypes that shape public perceptions of women's capabilities. Addressing and dismantling these barriers is essential so that women recognise their opportunities.
My advice for women is to not accept 'no' as an answer. Keep pushing forward, and don't give up on changing stereotypes and biases. Just because these obstacles exist doesn't mean we need to accept them.
One thing I've found helpful throughout my career is that I've been fortunate to receive mentorship from inspiring women leaders who have helped pave the way for others. These mentors have offered invaluable insights and guidance, helping me navigate complex situations and make strategic decisions. Their encouragement has given me confidence and resilience and has been instrumental in my professional growth. Accessing mentorship and forming connections with such leaders can significantly enhance one's career progression and empower women to reach their goals''.
Feeling empowered is the first step toward empowering others
''I feel empowered as a woman, which is the first step toward empowering others. What truly makes me proud is seeing my children go out into the world with real confidence and determination. My efforts play a significant role in this; this realisation empowers me and shows that I'm doing a good job. The challenge of balancing my career with my responsibilities as a mother is not always easy, but it strengthens my belief that I can thrive in both areas.
I'm very fortunate that I've had a lot of women throughout my life who have inspired me a lot. My mum is one of those people. She worked really hard and always put us first. I've tried to take that on in my own life as well, but from a career perspective, I've had a lot of strong, resilient women in positions that have supported me throughout my career and helped me get to where I am today.
Resilience is a key quality I find inspiring in people I have worked with. This is something I strive to incorporate into my own life as well. Along with resilience, integrity and honesty are essential to me. When I observe these traits in leaders within the organisations I've worked for, it truly inspires me, and I aim to reflect those values in my daily interactions.
It's your career and your life. Don't let anyone stand in your way; chase your dreams and achieve your goals''.
We asked Dulcie Link, the Registered Manager at Red Hill Care Centre and Jemma's former colleague, what International Women's Day means to her and why celebrating women in social care is important
Many remarkable women have inspired me throughout my life. I consider myself a true child of the 70s (the approach to caring for children during that era was quite different from today). My mother, a career-driven woman, had me when she was nearly 40. As a result, I embarked on my educational journey at a very young age, starting nursery school when I was just six weeks old.
From that early age, my routine was established: I attended nursery school every day from eight until six in the evening. This allowed my mother to maintain her professional commitments, but it also meant that I spent significant time away from her during my formative years. Because of this, my early relationship with her was somewhat distant; I hardly got to know her well during that time.
At 16, I began my own journey into the working world and have been busy ever since. Over the years, I've raised four children of my own, juggling the demands of parenthood with my professional responsibilities. Despite the challenges of balancing work and family life, I've never taken a break from my career. I have consistently worked throughout, dedicating myself to my job and family.
My mother and my former manager both inspired me significantly. It was through their encouragement that I was able to become a care home manager.
Every day presents a challenge. This is true for everyone, but particularly for women. For women, the struggle often revolves around being heard. We often have to fight harder for our rights and recognition than men do as we continue to work within a male-dominated society. Even today, this is still the case!
International Women's Day is a time to reflect on the women who have inspired you. Consider how these influences have shaped who you are today, the achievements you have reached, and the support you've received from others along the way.
I feel very fortunate because I feel empowered every day. I am a mother of four and have two grandchildren. I also manage a nursing home with 90 beds. I feel empowered daily thanks to the support I receive from others, enabling me to do what I do.
I encourage everyone not to give up and to celebrate every success, no matter how small. If you ever have a day when you feel you haven't succeeded, remember that tomorrow is another day, and it can always be better. Don't view setbacks as failures; instead, see them as opportunities for learning. Consider failure as the first attempt at learning. Use it as a stepping stone, and think, "I won't do that again; I'll try a different approach next time, and it will be better." Stay positive!
We also asked Karen Jeffries, the Unit Manager at Red Hill Care Centre (another one of Jemma's former colleagues), what International Women's Day means to her and why celebrating women in social care is important
For me, International Women's Day is a day for women everywhere to reflect on their achievements and recognise the milestones in their lives and careers. It also serves as a moment to honour and celebrate the accomplishments of inspiring women, whether they are friends, family members, mentors, or public figures.
I am incredibly proud of my two daughters, who continually inspire me with their kindness and determination. My daughter Amy faced a challenging time when she underwent an operation at the age of 16. The experience left her with severe anxiety due to the trauma that unfolded so suddenly. Rather than allowing this anxiety to hold her back, Amy took action. She established a netball club specifically designed for mothers who are struggling with postnatal depression.
This unique initiative is called the Fun League, which focuses not on competition or winning but on creating a supportive community where participants can come together in a relaxed atmosphere. Through her journey, Amy draws on her experiences to provide encouragement and understanding to others, making a meaningful difference in their lives.
Then there's my other daughter, Becky, who has pursued a remarkable career as a dementia specialist. My work profoundly influenced her decision to enter nursing and specialise in dementia care.
She saw firsthand the challenges and rewards of this field and was inspired to follow in my footsteps. Becky's dedication to her work is evident in how she cares and supports her patients and their families, striving to enhance their quality of life. I am proud to see her harness her passion and kindness in pursuit of making a positive impact in this critical area of healthcare.
Celebrating women in social care is of utmost importance, especially considering that most professionals in this sector are women.
Social care encompasses a broad range of services that provide essential support to individuals facing challenges in their daily lives, whether due to age, disability, or health issues - When individuals need assistance with personal care and wellbeing, compassionate and dedicated women in social care step in to provide that critical support.
Dedicated professionals in the social care sector play a crucial role in supporting vulnerable individuals who often face complex health issues. Without their expertise and compassion, many of these individuals would be left to navigate difficult circumstances alone. We must honour and promote the invaluable contributions of these professionals as they enhance the quality of life for our loved ones—your grandma, your grandad, your mum, your dad, and even us in the future.
Recognising their hard work ensures we advocate for the resources and support they need to continue this essential service. By doing so, we help vulnerable individuals and acknowledge the importance of social care within our communities.
Shining a spotlight on Claire Picton, Registered General Nurse at St. Mary's Convent and Nursing Home
From NHS emergency care nursing to social care: a compelling career journey to inspire us all!
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Shining a spotlight on Lisa Stevenson, the Lead Activities Coordinator for Kingsmead Care Home
An extraordinary individual committed to uplifting the lives of others and making a positive impact in their community.
Shining a spotlight on Caroline Inch, Director of Care and Operations and a qualified specialist in dementia care at B&M Care
From being in care to becoming a leader in care: a powerful story to motivate us all!
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