“Been Here as Long as the Home”, says Chaplain at Derby Home Who Marks 15-year Service
A chaplain working at a Derby home says he is part of the makeup of the home as he marked his 15-year service.
Paul Hygate started working at MHA Willowcroft in 2011, the same year the home opened.
It was a real change in career for Paul as he worked in retail for 16 years prior to joining the home.
He credits his time in working in retail and the public as something that has helped him succeed in his role as the homes chaplain.
To mark his achievement, the management team at the home presented him with some gifts, a voucher and a certificate.
MHA Willowcroft provides residential and residential dementia care for 60 residents.
Speaking of his time at the home he said: “I started working at MHA Willowcroft from the beginning of the home’s journey and there is a lot of pride attached to that.
“I have been here as long as the home, and it was a nice surprise to get the recognition from the management team.
“Prior to this I worked in retail for 16 years, a friend of mine who worked as a chaplain at MHA Maple Leaf House, told me about the opportunity at MHA Willowcroft, which I applied for and here I am 15 years later.
“One thing that I am very happy with is that a chaplain is part of the basic set up at a MHA home, which is quite beneficial as I don’t have to explain my role and what it brings to a home.
“My role is very fulfilling, it’s a role that I feel comes naturally to me, and it’s not just a job.
“Being a chaplain in MHA is not just about religion, having that support system for staff, residents and their loved ones is first and foremost.
“Being able to support residents, staff and their loved ones during a time of difficulty is something that we all need, regardless of our religious beliefs.
“I have supported other chaplains who have joined from neighbouring homes and supported their development by being a work buddy for them.
“Receiving the recognition and the gifts was really nice but seeing and reading the comments of support and well wishes from our supporters on the homes social media page was very heartwarming.”
