A love of painting and decorating brought Richard Parkins to Avocet Court Care Home back in 2002 – and 20 years on he continues to serve residents as maintenance manager.
Richard was just 17 when he took up a part-time job at the home, in Monmouth Close, Ipswich and he would spend his weekends painting rooms for the residents.
He then took some hours working in the kitchen alongside maintenance before gaining a full-time job. When his manager left, Richard secures a promotion to his current role.
Richard’s dedication to the home, which offers nursing, dementia, residential, palliative, respite and rehab care across three communities, was recognised at the company’s Christmas award ceremony on 15th December.
The father-of-one, who lives in Ipswich, said: “I have always loved painting and decorating, and making things look good so this was the ideal job for me. I enjoy improving the home and making it welcoming for our residents.
“Every day is different here and I love the variety of the job. One of the most unusual things I have been asked to do is rescue a deer from our car park.”
The 37-year-old said he enjoys talking to the residents and recalls one time when a former painter and decorator moved in and wanted to help renovate his own room.
“We helped him out and he loved getting stuck in.”
Richard is responsible for the upkeep of the buildings, and also supports the garden team in the summer.
“I work inside in winter and outside in summer, it is the best of both worlds.”
Home manager Ruth Garnham said: “Richard has spent 20 years making sure our homes have a homely feel and are welcoming for our residents and their visitors. It was a privilege to present him with a long service award recognising his hard work and dedication to our home.”
Awards were also presented to three members of staff who have served for five years each at Avocet Court.
