Tuesday 24th March 2026
Meet Wellbeing and Dementia Lead…Eve
Tyler Sewell-Nicholas
When Eve first joined Pilgrims’ Friend Society in 1997, she could never have imagined the journey ahead. She has since returned to Evington Home, Leicester, as Wellbeing and Dementia Lead, bringing decades of experience, faith, and compassion to her role
I had no direction at all. When I first joined Pilgrims’ Friend Society in 1997, I wasn’t following a carefully planned career path. After finishing my A-levels and watching my friends head off to university, I found myself unsure of what to do next and searching for a purpose.
That very afternoon, I got a phone call…I just knew that was from the Lord. A friend had suggested I apply to Pilgrims’ Friend Society (then called Pilgrim Homes). In a moment of uncertainty, I prayed for guidance, and the answer came almost immediately when I was offered a carer role at Evington Home. I felt certain that this was exactly where I was meant to be.
Working with older people is just where I fit. I began my career at Evington as a carer, later becoming a senior carer in what was then a nursing setting. In 2007, I briefly moved to Framland, Wantage in a senior relief role, stepping up to support the team in a leadership capacity. I then spent time at Royd Court, Mirfield, where I took on a variety of responsibilities—from practical day-to-day support to developing and leading a growing staff team. After a period away from the organisation, I returned to Evington Home in 2024 as a Hummingbird, before progressing into my current role as Wellbeing and Dementia Lead, where I now support both staff and family members across the home.
Compassion is such a big thing for me. My faith shapes everything I do. I pray for ‘family members’ (those who live with us) and staff, and when things are challenging, I take time to step away and pray. It’s such a privilege when people allow me to pray for them. It really builds trust and relationships.
I always felt there was a piece of the puzzle missing. After time spent working in different roles in different companies over the years- including a move to Scotland, where I worked in a Christian bookshop and in special education – I felt drawn back to care. My passion for working with older people never left me and so coming back to Evington Home felt like coming home.
I’ve found out so many amazing things about those who live with us. In my role, I support both family members and staff - helping new family members settle in, understanding their stories, and ensuring care is always personal and meaningful.
You don’t forget the people you’ve cared for. After decades of working in care, it’s the relationships that have stayed with me – and sometimes come full circle. I remember a moment when a family member was nearing the end of her life, and as I spoke with her relatives, they mentioned her mother’s name. I suddenly realised I had cared for her years before. Instantly, the memories came back – her personality, her mannerisms – and I could even see the resemblance between mother and daughter.
Feelings matter most. That’s always at the heart of how I support our family members, especially those with dementia. They might not remember my name or my role, but they will remember how I made them feel. For me, it’s about understanding the need behind the behaviour – whether someone is uncomfortable, anxious, or simply trying to communicate something they can’t express.
It’s been an incredible challenge, but I’ve gained so much from it. Outside of work, I’m in the final year of my Health and Social Care degree, which has been a real challenge but so rewarding. I also love spending time with my husband and our daughter Chloe and enjoying simple things like family time and creative hobbies.
It feels like one big family. That’s what Pilgrims’ Friend Society is to me. There’s so much history, so many connections, and such a strong sense of community. I’m really proud to be a part of it.
Looking ahead, I want Evington Home to keep learning and keep putting person centred care first. My hope is for the home to continue to grow and provide outstanding care for our family members living with and without dementia.
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