News

Making our villages wonderful places to live is the basis of all movements here at Richmond Villages, and this is keenly achieved by one of our experienced Village Managers, Debra Cosgrove.

Overseeing operations at our Bede village in Warwickshire, Debra has been part of the Richmond Villages family for over 14 years, since first joining the company in January 2009.

There have been multiple comings and goings during Debra’s time in Bede, all of which have made her smile and provided plenty of happy memories that she looks back on with fondness.

Such is Debra’s warmth, dedication and willingness to adapt, her career has grown in line with the village, progressing from Village Accountant to Village Manager, a position she has held since June 2022.

On her long service with Richmond Villages, Debra said, “It has been incredibly easy to be here for so long – the residents, visitors and staff are incredible and everyone who works here makes a real difference to the lives of people who live here. It is such a happy place to be every day.”

Under Debra’s stewardship, the village is a fantastic space to live, socialise and relax, with a number of superb homes and gardens that facilitate a blissful retirement, as well as its extensive activities programme keeping everybody active and on their toes.

Debra is often getting involved with village activities, and in liaison with Activities Manager Louise Smith, helps to put on many stimulating pursuits for those internal and external to the village.

On some of the activities the village provides, Debra said, “I think it’s very important to get involved in village activities – I love seeing people having fun and enjoying themselves.

“I pride myself on getting to know everybody that lives here, and often stop for little chats. It’s lovely to have that bond with people.”

As with all of our villages, Bede has an incredible community spirit, with many events coordinated around how we can support our local communities.

Whether this be through collective donations from residents and staff for local food banks and other charities, or consistent engagement with the local primary school with residents reading to children and looking through their workbooks, generosity exists across the board.

Debra and her team are always doing right by the Bedworth community, and on the community spirit within the village, said, “Bede village is a little community in itself, everybody looks out for one another.

“Friendships have been built between our residents – some go on holiday together, as well as day trips and outings – we even had a marriage some years ago!

“For me, the pandemic was testament to the spirit that exists here – our staff pulled together to keep the community safe, while also safely coming round with cakes, donuts and hot chocolates.”

In her 14 years with Richmond Villages, Debra is grateful for the bank of wonderful memories she has been able to acquire, such as unifying village days like Winter Wonderland, Christmas fayres and the annual Villagers vs Staff bowls tournament – which in her time the staff have never won!

But there’s a more personal reason that Debra cherishes Richmond Villages Bede. Debra said, “I have had two family members cared for in the nursing home, both treated with absolute respect and dignity.

“They felt happy and safe while here, so even though this was a sad time, it was a nice memory.”

“This is a great place for all to be – I have found my purpose in my working life, long may it continue.”

Debra is just one of our dedicated and valued team members and we are extremely privileged to have her.