Meet Ruth Pocock - 40 Years of Service

At BlueCare, our story is built on the dedication of people who choose to spend not just years, but decades, helping others live with dignity, comfort and care. When someone devotes their career to our mission, it’s more than just time served.

In this series, we’re proud to share the journeys of staff who’ve dedicated their careers to BlueCare. Their stories are part of our legacy – and our future.

Ruth Pocock – Diversional Therapist –40 Years of Service

‘Listening to and learning from residents is vital.’

How did your journey with BlueCare begin?

My journey with BlueCare began in 1985. A friend asked if I’d be interested in working 6–8am at Girraween Hostel, helping residents get ready for breakfast. We cared for 60 residents in a two-storey building. Most were independent, drove their own cars and were active in the community and their churches. It really felt like one big family.

What have been some of the highlights of your 40 years with BlueCare?

For me, many of the highlights have been found in the ways our team have expanded and improved our services, facilities and ultimately the resident’s experience.

In 1989, I secured a government grant that funded an extra staff member and our own bus—transforming daily life and creating joyful experiences for residents with dementia. In the early 1990s, residents’ generosity helped build a laundry and activity room, with one even funding a lift and tearoom furniture.

In 2013, my husband and I proudly donated $18,000 to upgrade the Nazarene café, made possible through years of volunteer fundraising. Seeing staff, residents and families come together to enhance quality of life has always been deeply rewarding.

I also cherish memories of turning the dining room into a hub for bowls, concerts, themed dinners and dances—moments that made the community truly come alive.

What are some of the challenges in your role and the aged care sector?

Teamwork was key—if you saw a task, you did it. Personal washing, cleaning, serving meals, and most importantly, listening to and caring for residents.

Covid-19 stands out as one of the hardest times I recall. Residents couldn’t see their families, and while we were like family, it wasn’t the same. We adapted—setting up gazebos in the garden for safe visits, marking birthdays and holidays with treats and decorations, and capturing photos for families.

Change is constant in aged care, and embracing it has been essential to my success and happiness in the role.

With 40 years in aged care, what would you say to those interested in a career with BlueCare?

Listening to and learning from residents is vital. Patience, compassion and understanding are essential—along with genuine interest in residents’ lives and what makes them happy. 

These are essential individual qualities we need to enjoy a long-term and satisfying career with Blue Care.