Churchill Living is delighted to introduce Jack Ireland as the live-in Lodge Manager at its brand-new retirement development, Barum Lodge, in the heart of Barnstaple.
Having lived in the local area for more than 20 years, Jack brings a wealth of customer service and community experience to the role. He is now at the heart of the new community at Barum Lodge, supporting owners and renters as they settle into their new homes and helping to create the welcoming, sociable atmosphere Churchill Living developments are known for.
Before joining Churchill Living, Jack spent several years working for Libraries Unlimited, progressing from Library Assistant to Team Leader. Responsible for the day-to-day running of libraries across North Devon, he led colleagues, supported customers, ensured buildings were safe and well maintained, and worked closely with contractors while promoting health and wellbeing within the community.
His decision to join Churchill Living was inspired by a deeply personal experience.
Following the loss of his grandmother, Jack's grandfather moved into a Churchill Living development in Hampshire, where Jack visited him and saw first-hand the positive difference retirement living made to his life.
Jack said: “After my grandfather was widowed, he moved into a Churchill Living development in Hampshire and I visited him regularly. During those visits I was able to experience what a wonderful community Churchill creates. I got to know his neighbours, many of whom became friends, and I could see the difference the Lodge Manager made to everyone's daily lives.
“That experience really stayed with me. When I heard Churchill was building Barum Lodge just 10 minutes from where I live, it felt like the perfect opportunity.
“Having lived in Barnstaple for over 20 years, I know how important companionship and support are for many older people in our community. Barum Lodge is a fantastic addition to the town, and I'm excited to welcome new residents, help them settle into their new homes and support them in making the most of everything retirement living has to offer.”
For Jack, the most rewarding part of the role is getting to know each person who moves in and helping them through what can be one of the biggest changes in their lives.
He said: “The best part of the job is meeting new people and getting to know their stories. I think we have so much to learn from the older generation, and it's a privilege to be able to support them at this stage of their lives.
“Moving home is one of the biggest decisions many people ever make, so being able to help make that transition as smooth as possible is incredibly rewarding. Whether it's helping someone settle into their apartment, introducing neighbours to one another, or simply taking time for a chat over a cup of coffee, it's all about helping people feel at home.
“As I’m a live-in Lodge Manager with my own apartment at Barum Lodge, I’m also living and experiencing this right alongside them. I hope that eases any nerves or uncertainty they may have, to know we’re all in it together.”
As a Barnstaple local, Jack is able to share his vast knowledge of the area with residents – many of whom move from surrounding towns or even further afield.
He added: “We organise regular social events throughout the week and month, so there's always something happening. I also enjoy sharing my knowledge of Barnstaple by recommending local clubs, activities and places to visit, so residents can go out and enjoy everything the town has to offer while knowing there's also a welcoming community here at Barum Lodge to come back to.
“Some of our residents live alone, so helping friendships develop and seeing people become part of a community is incredibly special. It's also lovely getting to know their families and knowing they have peace of mind that their loved ones are living somewhere safe and supportive. No two days are ever the same, and that's one of the things I enjoy most.”
Although Barum Lodge has only recently welcomed its first owners, Jack says watching the development evolve has already been one of the highlights.
He said: “Watching Barum Lodge take shape over the past few months has been incredible. Seeing it transform into somewhere people can now call home has been really special, and it was a privilege to welcome our first owners and help them settle into their new apartment.
“I'm looking forward to welcoming many more residents over the coming weeks and months, celebrating our first summer events together and, before we know it, planning our first Christmas at Barum Lodge. It's exciting to be helping create a community that people will enjoy being part of for many years to come.”
Jo Ridehalgh, Marketing Lead for Churchill Living South West, said: “Our Lodge Managers play a vital role in every Churchill Living development, helping residents enjoy an active, independent and sociable lifestyle while providing reassurance and support whenever it's needed.
“Jack's warmth, enthusiasm and genuine passion for helping people make him the perfect person to welcome new residents to Barum Lodge. His local knowledge and commitment to building a thriving community in Barnstaple will ensure everyone feels at home from the moment they move in.”
Barum Lodge is a collection of 75 one and two-bedroom retirement apartments, beautifully positioned on the banks of the River Taw in the centre of Barnstaple. Designed for the over-60s, the development offers independent living in self-contained apartments, alongside a communal lounge with coffee bar, regular social events and easy access to the town's shops and amenities.
