Richard Roy has only been with BCG’s Clement Park care home as a Domestic Assistant since April, but he’s already become a favourite with the residents.
As a former professional footballer, Richard has played for his national side and club teams internationally. Having met his wife, Clement Park Home Manager, Cheryl. in his native Trinidad, he moved to Scotland in 2016 to raise a family.
“One week after the wedding, I had a try-out with Hamilton Academical, so Black History Month means a lot to me,” he says. “As a black guy coming from Trinidad and Tobago, living in Scotland, I think it’s good when this time of year comes around. Yeah, it highlights and celebrates African and Caribbean heritage, but, for me, it’s more a chance to talk about our everyday lives, celebrating difference, but also just the same. It’s also good to show the people and the companies that are making a difference.”
When did his passion for the game start? “I’ve been playing football since I was 9 and I’m still playing at 36! I spent 9 years in the army in Trinidad and played with Defence Force FC. Besides Hamilton and my home team, I also played in India as well, for a team called Neroca, and several Dundee teams since I’ve lived here over the last 8 years. I coach football too and get a lot out of that.”
Although still very much a striker, Cheryl suggested Richard might enjoy working at Clement Park too. “This is a brand-new experience for me but I fell in love with it on the first day,” he says. “It’s a challenge but it’s a good one. I’m enjoying every day.”
What does his shift as a Domestic Assistant look like? “My working day involves looking after 23 rooms. 10 rooms are in the Cox unit, 13 are in Discovery. It’s the same routine every day, just keeping the accommodation clean and tidy. I need to leave the room immaculate. Every day, I want to do my job even better.”
What does he appreciate most about Clement Park? “The residents are great! I enjoy spending time with them and having that interaction throughout the day. I also enjoy lunchtime. There are great cooks here!”
Whether it’s in playing football or putting in a shift at Clement Park, Richard lives by a simple motto: “Whatever you’re doing, do it to the best of your ability.”
