A care home worker, marking nearly 14 years of service at a residential, nursing and dementia care home in Waltham Abbey, says her love of the job is all thanks to her strong team and the residents she works with.

Hilma Nuukongo, aged 47, is a Care Assistant at Ashbrook Court Care Home and has worked there for over 13 years. Dedicated Hilma began working at Ashbrook Court in October 2007 – a care home in Sewardstone.

“We’re very lucky to have such a strong team here at Ashbrook Court,” said home manager and registered general nurse, Jonathane Ribeiro.

“It’s heartwarming that Hilma continues to show such dedication and enthusiasm for her role after 13 years of service. For me, coming to work is always like being around my friends, rather than working with colleagues, we’re one big family.

Namibia-born Hilma came to the UK in 2004. After three years here she joined the team at Ashbrook Court in a role she has enjoyed ever since.

“I love my job," Hilma said. “I love looking after the residents, trying to fill all their needs. I enjoy being part of a team and we have such a strong one at Ashbrook Court because the moment you get there you feel welcome – by the staff and the residents.”

“I wouldn’t want to work in any other care home, Ashbrook Court is very special to me.”

Hilma lives in Waltham Abbey with her husband Saani, and their two children, 7-year-old Selma and 4-year-old Asana.

She was last able to visit her family in Namibia in 2019 before the COVID-19 travel restrictions and she looks forward to seeing them again when it is possible to do so.

“My family were very supportive when I decided to move to the UK,” says Hilma, “they are very proud of me. When I was young I wanted to be a nurse. I always knew I wanted a job where I could help people and I fell in love with care work.”