25 Years of LuxuryCare: A Legacy of Family, Excellence, and Compassionate Care
Have you ever found yourself searching for the perfect care home for a loved one, wondering where compassion and professionalism truly align?
Picture a home that feels more like family, with values rooted deeply in community, empathy, and dignity. For many families in Dorset, that journey begins with LuxuryCare, ranked among the best care homes Bournemouth and Poole has to offer.
In this blog, we reflect on 25 years of LuxuryCare, offering insights into how we’ve grown, what we stand for, and why our homes might be the answer you’ve been seeking.
The Origins of LuxuryCare
To understand where we are today, we have to look back at where we began. LuxuryCare’s story began as a modest, family-run initiative, founded by the parents of our CEO, Kevin Gunputh.
In 2003, Kevin returned to the business after building a career in wealth management in London. But he didn’t step into an executive role straight away. Instead, he chose to start from the ground up, cleaning, caring, and learning every role in the home. This grounded experience shaped not only his leadership style but the very culture of our organisation.
Every decision since has been built on a foundation of humility, respect, and care with compassion; values that still guide our day-to-day practices and shape our relationships with families and residents alike.
Growth and Achievements
From humble beginnings as a single home to becoming one of the leading names in care across Bournemouth and Poole, our journey has been shaped by purpose, passion, and a deep commitment to doing things the right way.
LuxuryCare today comprises six modern, fully equipped care homes, each supported by a dedicated team of over 500 professionals. We are proud to have set the benchmark as the first provider in Dorset to achieve an ‘Outstanding’ rating from the Care Quality Commission, positioning us among the select group of CQC Outstanding care homes in the region.
Guiding us every step of the way is the “Mum’s Test”: a simple philosophy that ensures no home is ever deemed suitable unless we would entrust it with our own loved ones. It’s this unwavering standard that sets us apart, and it’s why we’re proud to be an outstanding care provider. Dorset families can have confidence in our consistency, integrity, and personalised approach to care.
The 25th Anniversary Celebration
A milestone like this called for something extraordinary.
Earlier this month, we hosted our 25th anniversary celebration, which was a joyful evening that honoured the heart and soul of LuxuryCare. With over 200 guests in attendance, the event featured a drinks reception, garden cocktails, a three-course dinner, live music, and a special guest speaker.
Alex Thomas, our Head of People and Culture, curated a night that beautifully honoured our story. An awards ceremony celebrated long-serving staff, while heartfelt tributes reminded everyone of the journey we’ve shared. It was a chance to reflect, reconnect, and recognise those who shaped our legacy.
At every turn, the event echoed our founding value: care with compassion. To commemorate 25 years of LuxuryCare, we also put together a short documentary, including interviews with the people who’ve played a huge role in our journey.
The People Behind the Brand
Behind every milestone and every warm smile is a team that truly defines us. The following are the long-serving team members that have helped make us who we are.
Sam Hoskins – Managing Director
Starting as manager at Seabourne House in 2007, Sam’s journey has been one of dedication and impact. She played a key role in transforming Regency Manor into one of Dorset’s first homes to receive an ‘Outstanding’ rating from the CQC.
Rising through the ranks to become Managing Director, Sam exemplifies our principle: you work with us, not for us. Her unwavering leadership and commitment to quality care have helped shape LuxuryCare’s reputation and trusted presence across the region.
Cla Barrett – Finance Director
Cla has been with LuxuryCare for 17 years, overseeing financial strategy while helping drive the organisation’s growth and stability. Her journey has been a blend of professional precision and personal transformation.
She often reflects on how the company has supported her development, crediting LuxuryCare with helping her become the confident, capable leader she is today. Cla’s influence extends beyond the numbers; she’s deeply invested in the values of teamwork, transparency, and care that underpin our success.
Christina Barrett – Operations Director
Christina joined LuxuryCare in 2008 and quickly became known for her thoughtful, resident-centred approach to operational excellence. Her leadership has elevated standards across our homes, particularly Aranlaw House, which she celebrates for its ability to uplift individuals that other care settings may have turned away.
Christina has consistently championed innovation in service delivery and staff development, ensuring that compassion remains at the heart of everything we do. Her insight and experience continue to shape our future.
Zach Foote – Catering and Housekeeping Lead
With 17 years under his belt, Zach is an integral part of our story. He leads catering, housekeeping, and Colin’s Nest Café with an infectious energy and deep-rooted commitment to service. For Zach, LuxuryCare isn’t just a place to work – it’s family.
His belief in flat hierarchy means everyone is respected equally, regardless of their role or schedule. Whether staff are part-time or full-time, Zach ensures they’re seen, heard, and appreciated. His voice and values echo through every home.
Chloe Carr – Learning & Development Director
Chloe began her journey with us at just 21 years old, never imagining she’d one day lead our learning and development programme. But her potential was recognised, doors were opened, and support flowed freely.
Now, as a senior leader, she focuses on empowering others to grow, professionally and personally. Chloe’s proudest moments come from the floor, where she witnesses the genuine connections between staff and residents. For her, LuxuryCare isn’t just a job. It’s where she belongs.
Fernanda Ramari – Home Manager at Aranlaw House
As Home Manager at Aranlaw House, Fernanda brings heartfelt leadership to every corner of the home. One memory that stands out is a resident who’d struggled in previous placements yet flourished with Aranlaw’s compassionate approach.
The transformation was not just clinical, but deeply emotional; his wife now visits daily for lunch, met each time with a beaming smile. For Fernanda, this is the true measure of success: connection, dignity, and creating a place where relationships thrive.
Every team member plays a part in shaping who we are, and it’s the people who’ve positioned us among the top local care homes. Poole and Bournemouth residents will always find a sense of warmth and reliability behind our doors.
Reflections and the Road Ahead
Every reflection inspires new purpose, and every milestone sets the tone for tomorrow.
During the closing remarks, Kevin paid tribute to his parents’ vision, the dedication of our team, and the steadfast support of his wife, Esra. He spoke of his hopes for future generations to carry forward the values that built LuxuryCare from the ground up.
As we step into the next chapter, we’re committed to evolving while staying rooted in what matters most: family, integrity, and quality care. Our homes will continue to represent the most trusted family-run care home Dorset has to offer.
With each day and each new resident, we write the next line in a story filled with compassion, community, and purpose.
Your Next Step to Quality Care and Connection
Looking for residential, nursing, and dementia care Dorset families can count on? We invite you to discover the difference our homes can make.
Learn more about LuxuryCare’s six care homes, explore current career opportunities, or visit our team page to meet the dedicated team behind our success. With over 25 years of LuxuryCare experience, personalised care plans, and fully trained staff, you’re in compassionate hands.
Call us today on 01202 037373 or reach out via our contact form – we’re always here when you need us.
