Birmingham care homes invite community to honour VE Day

Two Birmingham care homes are opening their doors to the community to mark 80 years since the end of World War Two. 

 Care UK’s Edgbaston Manor, on Speedwell Road, and Metchley Manor, on Church Road, are welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with their very own 1940s-themed street parties.

VE Day was celebrated on 8^th May 1945, after Prime Minister Winston Churchill made an announcement on the radio that the war in Europe had come to an end. This emotional news sparked celebrations across the country, with many taking to the streets for spontaneous parties.

Teams at both homes have been hard at work organising their own special commemorative event, which will see residents and guests enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, entertainment and dancing as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s. 

The event at Metchley Manor will be taking place on Wednesday 7^th May, from 2pm-4pm, while Edgbaston Manor will be welcoming guests from 11.30am-1.30pm on Thursday 8^th May. 

Edgbaston Manor resident, Betty Rorke, said: “It’s such an important part of history, it needs to be honoured and celebrated. One of the main reasons I chose to join a care home is due to the fact that I have been missing a sense of community, and I have found that here. It’s so natural here, and you can feel everyone naturally coming together to celebrate the occasion. I don’t have any memories of the war personally but to be around others who share their experiences with me is such an honour”

Metchley Manor resident, Margaret Doano, added: “VE Day holds a special place in my heart. It’s a reminder of the strength and sacrifice of those who fought for our freedom. On these days where we gather and remember, I feel proud to have lived through such a pivotal moment in history. It’s an honour to be surrounded by friends and share these memories. The spirit here at Metchley Manor is vibrant, and events like these always bring energy and joy to the home. My parents always emphasised the importance of community, and I see that same dedication reflected in our gatherings.”

Kim-Marie Newton, General Manager at Metchley Manor, said: “We’re passionate about building and maintaining relationships within our community here at Metchley Manor, so we’re pleased to be opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day for a special day of sharing memories. 

“Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, especially those living with dementia, to connect with those around them and help maintain a sense of identity. In the run up to the day, residents have been sharing their own stories and it’s been inspiring to hear everyone’s experiences and memories from wartime Britain.”

Zoe Stevenson, General Manager at Edgbaston Manor, said: “We’re thrilled to be opening our doors to the community to mark the 80^th anniversary of VE Day. 

“The event is a chance to re-awaken old memories and offers a meaningful way for older people, and those living with dementia, to connect with others and celebrate a momentous event in our history. 

“As we approach VE Day, residents have been sharing their cherished stories from wartime Britain – it’s been so inspiring to hear their experiences and learn from one another. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces into Edgbaston Manor for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives while also promoting independence, Metchley Manor offers full-time residential and dementia care in luxury surroundings, as well as short-term respite care. The home offers an array of enriching activities and embraces innovation to ensure residents live joyful, fulfilling lives.