Time capsule marks the start of Brendoncare’s 40th anniversary celebrations
The Brendoncare Foundation celebrates its 40th anniversary on Wednesday 14th February 2024.
To launch the charity’s 40th year, photographs, stories and poems about the celebrations at Brendoncare’s care home and community clubs will be put in a time capsule. They will also show the many different ways in which the charity improves the quality of life for older people.
At the end of the year, the time capsule will be buried in the grounds of Brendoncare Otterbourne Hill. Pictured here are the residents and colleagues at Otterbourne Hill with the time capsule.
Parties
Brendoncare’s care homes and network of community clubs are holding parties. They will have special themes to mark the anniversary which falls on Valentine’s Day.
Among the celebrations taking place are:
- Farmyard animals (goats and sheep) visiting Brendoncare St Giles View, Winchester;
- A hearts-themed party at Brendoncare Alton care home;
- A 40th anniversary celebration at Brendoncare Otterbourne Hill. Residents and colleagues from Brendoncare Meadway in St Cross, Brendoncare Knightwood in Chandlers Ford and the Old Parsonage in Otterbourne are invited;
- A Valentine’s lunch at Brendoncare Stildon in East Grinstead, West Sussex, followed by an anniversary party;
- Anniversary parties for the clubs in the Dorset and New Forest, Mid Hampshire and South East Hampshire areas.
I Just Called To Say I Love You
Brendoncare is also releasing a cover version of Stevie Wonder’s classic song I Just Called to Say I Love You. Residents, colleagues, volunteers, and club members recorded the song and its accompanying video.
Changing Needs
The Brendoncare Foundation was established on 14th February 1984. Its founder, Winchester GP Sir Ronald Gibson chaired the BMA (British Medical Association).
Sir Ronald was convinced that older people were often let down by the institutions caring for them. He believed they should never have to move into a different care facility should their health fail or mobility deteriorate.
Sir Ronald pioneered the idea of tailoring a full range of care to fit the changing needs of people. The care would always be offered with discretion, respect, and dignity. These principles continue to guide Brendoncare’s work today.
Visions
Brendoncare built on his visions and now operates seven care homes across the south of England. They are in Hampshire (Alton, Knightwood, Meadway, Otterbourne Hill and St Giles View), Wiltshire (Froxfield) and West Sussex (Stildon).
Each of them offers a range of care comprising residential, nursing, dementia, end of life (palliative) and respite.
The charity also provides community services for older people. They include a network of more than 70 clubs across Hampshire and Dorset, online clubs, digital and telephone support, and special events. These are accessed through Brendoncare’s community membership.
Marianne Wanstall, Brendoncare’s Chief Executive, said: “This is a significant milestone in Brendoncare’s continuing work in providing care homes and a community services that enhance the quality of older people’s lives. This includes constantly finding new, innovative ways to meet their ever-changing needs.
Vibrant
“Our anniversary gives us the perfect opportunity to celebrate with all the wonderful people – our residents, mews residents and their relatives, community members, our colleagues and volunteers, who make Brendoncare the vibrant, forward-thinking organisation it is today.”
Marianne Wanstall adds: “Our status as a charitable organisation means we measure success by the impact on people’s lives. We also continue to ensure that the principles on which Brendoncare were founded are still central to our work today and in the future.
Care for Life
“This includes our Care for Life promise that ensures that when we welcome a permanent resident into one of our care homes, they will never be asked to leave due to lack of funds.”
For more information about Brendoncare, please visit the website or call 01962 852133.
