A care home resident in Castleford is inviting kind-hearted members of the community to send him postcards as part of a growing collection that has become a symbol of friendship, conversation and connection.

Richard Lee Davis, who lives at Fairburn Vale care home, has built up an impressive collection of 112 postcards from across the UK and around the world – and he’s now hoping to add many more to his wall.

Fairburn Vale provides specialist nursing care for adults living with complex mental and physical health needs arising from a primary neurological diagnosis, such as brain injury, stroke or motor neurone disease.

Richard’s collection began with a postcard from the home’s former maintenance man, Gary.

Richard Lee Davis, who lives at Exemplar Health Care’s Fairburn Vale care home, has built up an impressive collection of 112 postcards from across the UK and around the world.

placeholder image — Richard Lee Davis, who lives at Exemplar Health Care’s Fairburn Vale care home, has built up an impressive collection of 112 postcards from across the UK and around the world.

“He sent me a postcard from his holiday and I really liked it,” Richard said.

"It made me feel good and I enjoyed hearing all about his trip, so I thought it would be nice to start collecting them.”

Since then, staff have continued the tradition, sending Richard postcards from their holidays from places including Spain, America, Jamaica and seaside towns across the UK.

The postcards are proudly displayed on Richard’s bedroom walls and have become a real talking point within the home.

Richard said: “They’re all meaningful to me because they’re all places I’ve never been.

“It means a lot to me. It’s a good conversation starter when people come into my room. It helps me find out more about the team members and their holidays and it makes me feel involved and important.”

Richard’s journey at Fairburn Vale has been a remarkable one. When he first moved in, he was unable to do anything independently and used a wheelchair.

Today, he walks around and does most things for himself and has been preparing for another exciting milestone - becoming a grandad for the first time.

Katie Leonard, Home Manager, said: "Richard’s postcard collection is a wonderful example of how small, thoughtful gestures can have a big impact.

“Receiving postcards has helped Richard build friendships, start conversations and feel connected to the world beyond the home. It truly reflects our commitment to making every day better for the people we support.”

If you’d like to send Richard a postcard post it to: Richard Lee Davis, Fairburn Vale Care Home, Wheldon Road, Ferry Fryston, Fairburn, Castleford, WF10 2PY.