14/07/2025
🎉 From Rainy Beginnings to Leadership: Michelle Yates Marks 25 Years with Coverage Care 🎉
What began as a rainy visit to a client in 2001 has blossomed into a remarkable 25-year career for Michelle Yates, now serving as Operations Manager at Coverage Care Services, overseeing five of the organisation’s 11 care homes across Shropshire.
Michelle’s journey started when she was a self employed carer, and was visiting a client at Summercroft Residential Home. “It was a very wet and grey day,” she remembers, “but the welcome I received was absolutely wonderful. I thought to myself, oh my goodness, I think I could work here.”
That moment sparked a career defined by compassion, leadership, and growth. Starting as a relief carer, Michelle quickly rose through the ranks — from shift leader to deputy manager, and then home manager at Barclay Gardens in Telford. By 2009, she was supporting other homes across the organisation, and in 2022, she stepped into her current role as Operations Manager.
When asked what’s kept her with Coverage Care for so long, Michelle says, “It’s all about the people. Working with staff who have different skill sets and tapping into the strengths they bring. All my deputies have now become managers themselves — the career progression here is fantastic.”
She credits the organisation’s supportive culture and leadership:
“From day one, if you wanted to do something, the company would pay for your training. It’s a fantastic company to work for. There isn’t anyone who isn’t supportive.”
“ Since Debbie [Price] has been with us, you wouldn’t know she was the Chief Executive — she mucks in like anyone else, doing whatever needs to be done.”
As Michelle celebrates 25 years with Coverage Care, her story stands as a shining example of dedication, opportunity, and the power of people-first care.
👏 Join us in congratulating Michelle on this incredible milestone!
Here is Michelle, out and about supporting the homes