Little did she know, but the wise words from a relative 50 years ago would define Margaret Moreton’s career – and she’s showing no signs of retiring yet. After finishing working for local bread manufacturer Welsh Country Maid to raise her two children, Margaret was given some advice by her mother-in-law which would later lead to half a century of service in Swansea Bay.
Margaret was 26 when she took heed and applied for a role as a healthcare support worker in Margam’s Groeswen Hospital.Within weeks of applying, she found herself working on the ward of what was then an isolation and geriatric hospital. Margaret said: “My mother-in-law encouraged me to go for a job in the hospital where she worked, so I thought I’d do it just to keep her happy. “Within weeks I was on the ward looking after patients. I loved it and was proud to start my career in healthcare. I still have my original contract. “I stayed for 14 years, before I saw an advertisement for a post based at Tonna Hospital which was in the community. “I was very nervous at the interview, but one of the managers put me at ease. His name was Peter Collier – a lovely man and a great boss – and coincidentally I am now working with one of his daughters.”
Fast forward to 2026, and Margaret has passed the 50-year mark for service. Now 76, Margaret works two days a week based in Port Talbot Resource Centre supporting people with Alzheimer’s. Margaret has enjoyed the camaraderie of the teams she’s worked in. Often described as extended family to those she looks after, Margaret’s personal skills come to the fore in understanding how her time is best spent when out in the community. Whether it’s company at someone’s home or visiting shops or simply going for a coffee, visits are personalised to meet each person’s needs.
Margaret said: “Working with people with Alzheimer’s is very rewarding in that you’re always helping them either by doing practical things or by just being there and listening and chatting. “I help keep them in the society that they have, and be around people. “I may take them for a coffee and help with their shopping. Some people don’t want to go out but would prefer to do some knitting – it helps with their movement, co-ordination and stimulates the mind. “Some people may not be able to think of ideas of what to do when I am with them, and that’s where the personal care kicks in as I know these people well so I understand what they like to do. “Clients often invite me to personal celebrations, which is nice as it is like I am extended family to an extent. I was recently invited to a 92nd birthday.”
Despite being eligible for retirement, Margaret’s passion to work is driven by the people she visits during each shift, and those she calls her “work family.” Margaret added: “I really love my job. Of course, there are times when I wake up in the winter during cold, dark days and think ‘oh, should I still be doing this at my age?’ “But once I’m out the door and in work my attitude has completely changed and I realise exactly why I’m still working. “Of course, things have changed a lot over the years like medicines, technology and the way services are run, but the closeness of the staff has always been the same. “I’ve got great colleagues at work. I’m based in Port Talbot Resource Centre now and there’s a great camaraderie there. We go for nights out together and there’s a really good team spirit. “That’s another reason why I just love coming into work for every shift.”
