Care home crowns Southampton resident ‘local hero’

A Southampton care home has named the winner of its ‘Local Heroes’ competition.

Rick Morris BEM was awarded the top prize of £300 by the team at Care UK’s newly opened The Wickets on Banister Road.

The contest was launched to find an individual, charity, group or club that makes a positive difference within the Southampton community and reward them for their commitment to the local area.

Since Rick’s Parkinson’s disease diagnosis in 2017, he has dedicated his time to give presentations to raise awareness, offer support to those living with the condition and volunteer for Parkinson’s UK.

He recently delivered a talk to the Southampton Property Association, which contributed to a donation of £14,000 to the charity. 

Rick said: “What a great amount, I was blown away by the response. Any amount donated means a lot to me and others who fundraise. Fundraising is essential for Parkinson's UK as it helps towards finding a cure for this horrible disease. I will always be happy to share my story so people can see what life was like before and after a Parkinson's diagnosis.”

At the prize presentation, Rick shared his story and enjoyed afternoon tea with residents and team members at the care home, before being given his award as the local hero.

Pooja Dhoot, Home Manager at The Wickets, said: “We all know someone who goes above and beyond for others – here in Southampton, it’s Rick.

“The nomination we received on Rick’s behalf was so heartwarming that there was no doubt in our minds he embodies what it means to be a local hero. Rick has worked tirelessly to improve the lives of those living with Parkinson’s disease in Southampton.

“Supporting the community and vulnerable people is a cause that is close to our hearts here at The Wickets, and we are delighted to be able to reward someone who positively impacts on the area. We want to extend our congratulations and a big thank you to Rick for everything he does.”

The Wickets provides full-time residential, nursing and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to lead active and fulfilling lives, while also promoting independence, the home incorporates plenty of space for hobby and leisure activities and boasts its own cinema, hair and beauty salon and pub.