28/07/2026
We often say that if you want to understand someone, look at what they do when they don't have to.
Take Vicky Taylor at Cooper House.
Most people know Vicky because Cooper House has become one of Bradford's go-to care homes. Residents adore her, families trust her and professionals regularly tell us what a well-run home it is. She throws herself into everything – whether that's creating meaningful experiences for residents, building relationships with veterans, getting local businesses involved or making sure the home is part of its community rather than simply sitting in it.
Then you discover that's exactly how she lives her life.
She trains in karate four or five times a week, is already an international gold medallist, has now been appointed England Team Captain for the ICO International Combat Organisation Championships in France this October, helps run Cleckheaton Sport Karate Club, mentors young people, supports personal protection courses... and somehow still finds time for Northern Soul.
You soon realise the medals aren't really the story.
The story is discipline. It's commitment. It's encouraging other people to be the very best they can be.
Whether she's helping two young members of her club become its first Club Leaders, supporting veterans, leading a team of care professionals or making someone's day a little brighter at Cooper House, the approach never changes.
She simply gives everything she's got.
Sometimes people ask what makes a great care home manager.
It's hard to teach that kind of energy.
Fortunately for Strong Life Care Vicky brings it with her every single day.
Congratulations on becoming England Team Captain, Vicky. It's thoroughly deserved, and we're incredibly proud to have you on the Strong Life Care team.
Everyone has a life worth celebrating.
