“Should have retired years ago but love the job too much”, says staff member at MHA Queens Court who celebrates more than 30 years’ service

A staff member at MHA Queens Court says she should have retired a long time ago but loves the job too much.

Doreen Smalley has been working at the home for 31 years and started her time at the home as a hairdresser, a role she stayed in for 11 years and has been working as a housekeeping assistant for the last 20.

Doreen's family has a very close connection with the home, her mum was a resident and her sister also worked here for 25 years.

To mark the achievement Doreen was presented with a 20-year long service award for her services in the housekeeping team by home manager Yvonne Dawson.

Speaking after the award presentation Doreen said: “There has never been a day where I don't want to come into work.

“I really enjoy my job and it's a great place to work.

“I should have retired a long time ago, but I can't leave this job as I love it too much.

“I get along well with the residents and other members of staff, and the award was a lovely surprise.

“I haven't considered it yet, but when I do finish working, this will hopefully be my last job and I will still visit when I get the chance.”

Yvonne Dawson, home manager said: “Doreen is always pleasant and is the ideal staff member to have at the home.

“She always goes above and beyond and her attitude and personality is very infectious

“The award presentation was just our way of saying thank you for her services and she deserves the accolade.

“Whenever we get a new resident, she arranges a card and some flowers for them to feel welcome and she really is an asset for MHA Queen Court.”