Chingford care home invites community to honour VE Day

A Chingford care home is opening its doors to the community to mark 80 years since the end of World War II. 

On Thursday 8^th May, from 3pm-5pm, Care UK’s Ivy Grove, on Hatch Lane, is welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with its very own 1940s-themed afternoon tea.

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.

At Ivy Grove, the team has 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 with a Keep Calm and Carry On Tea Party.

Entertainment will include a singer who will transport residents and guests to the nostalgic era of the 1940s through song.

Resident Betty Williamson, 93, said: “I saw a lot in those days, both the darkness and the incredible light of people helping each other. When the community remembers VE Day, it’s not just about looking back, it’s about carrying forward the spirit of togetherness and resilience for the future.”

Jacob Mante, Home Manager at Ivy Grove, said: “We’re passionate about building and maintaining relationships within our community here at Ivy Grove, so we’re pleased to be opening our doors to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day for a special day of sharing memories and a wonderful Keep Calm and Carry on Tea Party.

“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. 

“We’re looking forward to welcoming our friends and neighbours into Ivy Grove for a day to remember.” 

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Ivy Grove provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, and the home incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies. The layout of the building has been configured to help facilitate the creation of close-knit communities and encourage social interaction among residents, and the home has its own café and hair and beauty salon.