Lifeways’ Kevin gets special recognition for 30 years of service to local shoppers
A community champion supported by Lifeways has received a special award for 30 years of service at his local supermarket.
To honour three decades of continued service, Kevin Shields, from Berwick-on-Tweed, was treated to some gifts and a party by his col leagues on the 30th anniversary of his employment.
Kevin said: “My job means the world to me. I have the odd bad day, but it keeps me busy and I like helping people with their shopping. I’d be lost without my job.”
Originally a Co-Op, the store was taken over by ASDA around 10 years ago and Kevin was transferred over, making him a familiar face to shoppers in the community.
Kevin says that the most important part of his job is helping shoppers find items in-store as well as helping older people with their bags and helping them to their cars or seeing them safely to the bus stop.
Kevin also plays a vital role at Lifeways as a Quality Checker and in his work as a Lifeways Executive Advisory Panel (LEAP) member, where he says he enjoys visiting other services, meeting new people and ensuring that everyone has a voice within Lifeways.
Lorraine Noble, who manages the service where Kevin lives, said: “You always know when Kevin’s working in the shop because it looks extra clean. He looks after people and he’s really caring – he’s like a community service. He’s very active in the community and everyone knows him. He’s a lovely person.
“Kevin really values the support of the team here, especially the emotional support that we offer him. People living here are encouraged to speak freely so that we can improve the service for everyone, and Kevin has been influential with that.”
Outside of work, Kevin is supported by the team at home to accomplish daily living tasks such as managing his medication and keeping appointments, and enjoys going on long walks where he explores his passion for photography.
Established in January 2025, LEAP is led by people we support, our ‘experts by experience’, and have a direct line to the company’s Executive Leadership Team (ELT) to influence decision-making, co-produce key projects and feedback on initiatives.