Meet The Manager – Amanda McDonald

We’re delighted to introduce Amanda McDonald as the Registered Manager for iBC Healthcare’s West Midlands Supported Living services, covering Birmingham and Worcestershire. With over two decades of experience in the health and social care sector, Amanda brings exceptional passion and dedication to her role—placing outcomes for the people we support at the heart of everything she does. Since joining iBC, Amanda has already implemented a wealth of enhancements across our services, driving quality, independence, and person-centred care. Her leadership, insight, and commitment make her a huge asset to the iBC team, and we’re excited to see the continued positive impact of her work!

We recently met with Amanda for a Q&A to help you get to know the person leading support packages across the West Midlands. Discover what drives her, why she’s such a great fit for the role, and why we’re so pleased she’s joined the iBC Team!

1. Can you tell us a little about your career journey so far, and what led you to join iBC Healthcare?

“I have 23 years’ experience in the health and social care sector. My career began as a support worker, and over the years I progressed through roles including Senior Support Worker, Deputy Home Manager, and eventually Registered Manager of residential services. For the past seven years, I’ve been a Registered Manager in community services.

I spent 18 years with my previous employer and eventually felt it was time for a new challenge. I wasn’t actively looking, but I was approached about iBC—and after doing some research into the company, I was blown away by the values and the genuine passion for supporting individuals with complex needs.

The #HomesNotHospitals message really reignited my passion. Over the years, I’ve seen too many people let down by the system—still being detained in long-term hospital settings, long after the Transforming Care agenda was introduced. Sadly, many leave these environments carrying significant trauma.

What stood out to me about iBC was their deep understanding of complexity—investing in staff through exceptional training and mentoring, and, crucially, ensuring that properties are Autism-friendly and high-quality, which I believe is key to success. iBC’s investment in digital platforms was also a big factor for me—it showed a forward-thinking approach, whether it’s through digital care records or thoughtfully designed environments that give people the very best start on their community journey.”

2. Supporting people with complex needs to live meaningful, everyday lives is at the heart of what we do — why is this mission so important to you personally?

“I’ve worked in health and social care since I was 18 years old. My mum is a learning disability nurse, and as a young adult, I attended events alongside people with learning disabilities, which really opened my eyes and shaped my values early on.

Over the years, I’ve seen both good and poor care—and how deeply this impacts individuals’ lives. I’m naturally empathetic, and I always try to put myself in the shoes of the people being supported. My passion lies in advocating for people to have the best possible lives, no matter how complex their needs may be.

I also love to observe. I feel I have a unique ability to watch quietly from a distance and then offer constructive feedback—insights that can help others reflect and strive for excellence in the support they provide.”

3. What’s your favourite part of being a Registered Manager in Supported Living?

“It’s difficult to pinpoint just one favourite part—I genuinely love my role. With my experience in the sector, I feel I’m able to lead and mentor my teams effectively. I think what makes me a bit different is that I truly want everyone to succeed, and I’ll do everything I can to promote this—for both the team and the people we support. I love to champion others.

Being a manager in supported living is a real privilege. It’s incredibly rewarding to support individuals to live the lives they want, to succeed, and to celebrate the small wins every single day.”

4. If we spent a day in your shoes, what would a ‘typical’ day look like for you?

“One of the reasons I love my role is that every day is different—there really isn’t a ‘typical’ day. Every day is super busy! I have oversight across many areas, so good communication is key. I check in with the Field Care Supervisors, offer advice, and provide mentoring for any ongoing situations.

I’m always striving for excellence—reviewing action plans, identifying key areas for improvement, and making sure we’re on track. I also liaise with professionals, families, and other stakeholders as needed.

But without a doubt, visiting the people we support is the highlight of any good day.”

5. Creating real opportunities for independence and freedom is so important — can you share a success story or moment that really made you proud?

“The success story that comes to mind is with AA—his recent video from a beach trip absolutely blew me away. From the behind-the-scenes planning to the pure dedication and outstanding support from his team, it genuinely made me emotional watching it.

What stood out most was how natural and relaxed it all felt. It looked like a boys’ day out—you wouldn’t even realise the team were support staff. That’s what made me the proudest. We support really complex individuals, yet the outcomes we help achieve are incredible.

It’s all about building trusting relationships and allowing the people we support to lead the way. We’re just there to walk alongside them—and that’s truly magical.”

6. Tell us about your team — what makes the West Midlands Supported Living team so special?

“Oh wow, where do I start? The West Midlands Supported Living team is just amazing. Our Frontline Care Specialists are all unique, each bringing their own individual strengths and skills. They lead and mentor their teams exceptionally—by trusting them, believing in their abilities, and supporting and uplifting one another every single day.

And of course, we couldn’t do any of this without our incredible support staff. They deliver high-quality, person-centred support every day—and they truly make the difference.”

7. Outside of work, what are some of your passions or interests that keep you smiling?

“My family and extended family mean everything to me—I love spending time with them, meeting up socially, and going out for meals. I also love a cheeky cocktail and a good dance!

I have two dogs who are my absolute babies. Buddy is a French Bulldog, and Rubie is an English Bulldog we rescued nearly two years ago. Rubie doesn’t have the best health and always has something going on, but she’s completely adorable.

We also took up camping last year and absolutely loved it—we’re really looking forward to many more camping adventures this year!”

8. Finally, what’s one thing you’re most excited about for the future of iBC Healthcare’s West Midlands services?

“I’m sure iBC has a fantastic future ahead—but personally, I’m really excited to see some of the plans and dreams of the people we support in the West Midlands come to life. Some individuals haven’t had the chance to go on holiday—ever, or not for many years. Now that we’re seeing more community access and growing confidence, it would be amazing to help fulfil those dreams.

We’ve also recently developed a communal space in one of our services, and we’re really excited to begin a future project focused on community outreach activities. We’ve got big plans, and one of the people we support is particularly eager to volunteer and use their previous experience working with sensory skills for young adults. I’m looking forward to seeing how this progresses—especially as it could help them rediscover their passion and reignite that fire in their belly.

More than anything, I’m excited to see the people we support, our incredible support staff, and our FCS team continue to flourish. I can’t wait to see where their journey takes them.”

A huge thank you to Amanda and the entire West Midlands Supported Living Team for their continued commitment, creativity, and passion in enhancing and improving the lives of the people we support. Every day, they embody what it means to support people to #DoAmazingEveryDay—whatever amazing looks like for each individual.

For more information or to make a referral, please email: referrals@ibchealthcare.co.uk