As a career coaching professional with over 25 years’ experience helping candidates succeed, I can tell you that few roles carry as much daily impact as that of a Housekeeper at Anchor Care Homes. A clean, safe, and welcoming environment is essential in care homes, where residents rely on consistent standards of hygiene, dignity, and comfort. Housekeepers are at the very heart of this—ensuring infection control, maintaining high-quality living spaces, and creating a home-like feel that supports residents’ wellbeing.
Job description and salary
The role typically includes cleaning resident rooms, communal areas, and clinical spaces, following health and safety regulations, handling laundry, reporting maintenance issues, and working as part of a wider care team. Strong communication skills, reliability, and attention to detail are essential. Salaries for Housekeepers at Anchor Care Homes generally range between £20,300 – £22,500 per year, depending on location and experience, with opportunities for progression and training.
With that foundation, let’s dive into the 25 most common interview questions and answers for a Housekeeper position at Anchor Care Homes, along with examples of how to use the STAR model (Situation, Task, Action, Result) to give structured, confident responses.
1. Can you tell us about yourself?
This is a classic opener. Keep it professional and concise.
Sample answer: “I have over four years of experience as a housekeeper in care environments, where I’ve developed strong cleaning skills, knowledge of infection control, and a passion for maintaining high standards. I enjoy being part of a team that supports vulnerable people.”
2. Why do you want to work as a Housekeeper at Anchor Care Homes?
Show motivation for both the role and the company.
Sample answer: “Anchor Care Homes has a fantastic reputation for providing quality care. I want to contribute to a safe, welcoming environment where residents feel at home. The values of dignity, respect, and community really resonate with me.”
3. What do you understand about the role of a Housekeeper in a care home?
This tests preparation and understanding.
Sample answer: “The role is more than cleaning. It’s about infection control, supporting the wider team, ensuring compliance with safety procedures, and helping residents feel comfortable and valued.”
4. What does good housekeeping mean to you?
Highlight standards and pride.
Sample answer: “Good housekeeping means attention to detail, consistency, and professionalism. It means making sure residents and staff can trust that the environment is safe and hygienic every single day.”
5. How do you prioritise tasks when you have multiple cleaning duties?
Competency-based, ideal for STAR.
Sample STAR answer:
Situation: At my previous role, I often had several areas requiring cleaning at once.
Task: I needed to ensure infection control standards were met without neglecting urgent requests.
Action: I created a checklist prioritising tasks by urgency, such as spillages first, then scheduled cleans.
Result: This system reduced complaints and ensured consistently high hygiene scores in audits.
6. How would you deal with a spillage or biohazard in a resident’s room?
Tests safety awareness.
Sample answer: “I would follow the infection control policy, use appropriate PPE, contain the spill, disinfect the area, and safely dispose of waste. I would then report the incident in line with procedures.”
7. How do you ensure infection control?
Sample answer: “By following strict cleaning protocols, using the correct chemicals, colour-coded equipment, PPE, and by never cutting corners. Consistency is vital in preventing cross-contamination.”
8. Tell us about a time you worked under pressure.
Use STAR.
Sample STAR answer:
Situation: During an outbreak at my previous care home, workload doubled.
Task: I had to ensure all areas were disinfected while supporting the team.
Action: I collaborated with colleagues, worked longer shifts, and prioritised high-risk zones.
Result: We successfully contained the outbreak, with no new cases after one week.
9. How do you handle confidential information you may overhear while cleaning?
Sample answer: “Confidentiality is crucial. If I overhear sensitive information, I never repeat it. I understand the importance of trust and safeguarding in care settings.”
10. What cleaning products or equipment are you most familiar with?
Sample answer: “I’m trained in using industrial cleaning agents, floor polishers, vacuum cleaners, and colour-coded cloths and buckets. I also have COSHH awareness.”
11. How would you respond if a resident asked for your help outside your usual duties?
Sample answer: “I would assist if it’s safe and appropriate, such as helping with small requests, or otherwise I’d politely pass the request to the care team. Supporting residents is always a priority.”
12. Tell me about a time you worked as part of a team.
Sample STAR answer:
Situation: During a care home inspection.
Task: The team needed all areas spotless.
Action: I coordinated with colleagues, split tasks, and supported others who were running behind.
Result: We passed the inspection with excellent feedback on cleanliness.
13. How do you stay motivated doing repetitive tasks?
Sample answer: “I focus on the bigger picture—that every task contributes to residents’ wellbeing. I also set personal goals to maintain efficiency and high standards.”
14. How do you ensure safety when handling chemicals?
Sample answer: “By following COSHH guidelines, wearing PPE, reading labels carefully, and ensuring proper storage. Safety is non-negotiable.”
15. What do you do if you notice a maintenance issue while cleaning?
Sample answer: “I’d log the issue immediately, report it to the supervisor, and place warning signs if necessary to keep residents safe.”
16. How would you manage disagreements with colleagues?
Sample answer: “I believe in calm communication. I’d listen, explain my perspective respectfully, and find a compromise. If unresolved, I’d escalate it appropriately.”
17. Tell me about a time you went above and beyond for a resident.
Sample STAR answer:
Situation: A resident was upset about a messy room after visitors.
Task: I wanted to make her feel comfortable quickly.
Action: I immediately prioritised her room, spoke kindly, and reassured her.
Result: She felt cared for and later thanked me for making her space welcoming again.
18. How do you manage your time effectively?
Sample answer: “I plan my day with a clear schedule, but I also remain flexible for urgent tasks. I use checklists to stay organised.”
19. How do you handle feedback or criticism?
Sample answer: “I welcome feedback as a chance to improve. For example, when asked to adjust my cleaning technique, I learned quickly and improved efficiency.”
20. Why should we hire you over other candidates?
Sample answer: “I bring proven experience, attention to detail, and dedication to resident care. I understand the importance of cleanliness in safeguarding health and wellbeing.”
21. How do you handle physically demanding tasks?
Sample answer: “I pace myself, use safe lifting techniques, and maintain good fitness. I’m used to the physical demands of housekeeping roles.”
22. How do you keep residents’ dignity in mind while working in their rooms?
Sample answer: “By knocking before entering, being respectful of personal belongings, and always asking permission before moving items.”
23. What do you know about Anchor Care Homes?
Sample answer: “Anchor is England’s largest not-for-profit provider of care and housing for older people, with a strong focus on quality, dignity, and independence.”
24. Do you have any questions for us?
Always prepare one.
Sample question: “What opportunities are available for career development within Anchor Care Homes?”
25. How would your previous manager describe you?
Sample answer: “Hardworking, reliable, and compassionate. I’ve been praised for consistency, teamwork, and positive relationships with residents.”
The STAR Model in Action
Remember: structure your answers with the STAR model—Situation, Task, Action, Result. This keeps responses clear, professional, and compelling.
Do’s and Don’ts for your Anchor Care Homes Housekeeper Interview
Do’s:
✔ Research the company thoroughly
✔ Dress smartly and arrive early
✔ Use clear STAR examples
✔ Smile and show enthusiasm
✔ Prepare thoughtful questions
Don’ts:
✘ Don’t give one-word answers
✘ Don’t speak negatively about past employers
✘ Don’t ignore safety or infection control in answers
✘ Don’t appear unprepared
Final interview coaching encouragement
Interviews can be nerve-wracking, but remember: Anchor Care Homes is looking for reliable, caring, and hardworking team members. You already have the skills—it’s about showing them with confidence. Practise your answers, use the STAR model, and approach the interview with optimism.
If you’d like tailored interview training with a professional interview coach, I offer one-to-one interview coaching online to support your job interview preparation. Book your interview coaching appointment today and take the next step towards a successful career with Anchor Care Homes.
