You’ve heard of going the extra mile at work but would you give up your holiday for your job? That’s exactly what Sue Harvey, house manager at McCarthy & Stone’s Benedict Court development in Newbury does every month for the enjoyment of retired residents living there.
When the first residents moved into Benedict Court in February 2009, it was not long before the local handy bus started making a stop at the development to take residents without transport to the supermarket to get their weekly shop. It got Sue thinking!
Sue explains: “I thought if the bus can take residents to the supermarket, why can’t it take them to other places as well? I made enquiries with the Council and discovered that the mini bus could be borrowed by qualified volunteer drivers. So I set about getting my mini bus licence!”
Sue passed her test in February. “I was delighted when I passed because it meant I was now able to offer ‘days out’ to residents at Benedict Court. Many don’t drive so getting around isn’t easy – and they’re all such lovely people – I thought it would be nice for everyone to go off for the day together. Our first trip was to Millett’s Farm and we’ve been touring the county since then!”
“Of course, as day trips are not part of my job description, I do need to book a day’s holiday in order to make them happen. I try to organise one trip a month. People ask me if I mind giving up my holiday but I really don’t! I love my job, the people and I really believe that the lifestyle on offer at McCarthy & Stone developments is such a wonderful option for people in later life. I thoroughly enjoy being able to offer something extra to the residents at Benedict Court.”
Megan Wall, a resident at Benedict Court comments: “It’s incredibly kind of Sue to give up her time to organise the trips and we always have such a wonderful time together. You see, one of the best parts of living at a retirement development is that you’re surrounded by a community of like minded people and there is a real support system in place. Sue’s trips are just another example of why we all love living at Benedict Court so much!”
Sue continues: “Today we’ve got the bus and we’re off to Beale Park to see the animals – and we can’t wait!”
Benedict Court is situated on Western Avenue, less than half a mile from Newbury town centre. The development offers a contemporary collection of one and two bedroom retirement living apartments.
Special design features are incorporated into each apartment including 24 hour emergency call points, electrical sockets at a raised height to reduce bending, illuminated light switches, a video entry system, easy grip lever taps in the bathroom and kitchen and energy efficient heating.
Residents at Benedict Court can also enjoy beautiful gardens, socialise and relax in the communal lounge and invite family or friends to stay in the development’s guest suite.
See Also: Property News (6711), McCarthy and Stone (109), Benedict Court (5), Newbury (5)
Date Published: 12 May 2010
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