Isleworth care home invites community to honour VE Day

An Isleworth 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 2pm-5pm, Care UK’s Charlotte House, on Snowy Fielder Waye, is welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of VE Day with its very own 1940s-themed street party.

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 Charlotte House, 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.  

The community is being invited to join residents for a street party, where guests are encouraged to take part in the home's fancy dress party, and the team will be unveiling a surprise creation they have been working on. The Mayor of Hounslow, Councillor Karen Smith, will also be joining the fun.

Resident Elizabeth Stringer, 93 years old, said: “My father worked for the British Embassy, I was in Brussels when the war started, I was only 7, I was at an English church when the vicar said we are in war. My mother walked out of her home, she left everything, walked out with only her clothes, and we were put on a ship. I thought it was great fun because I got to travel, and I was only a child.

“Back in the day, we had a big party with the community to celebrate the end of the war, and that’s why I think it is so important for the community to come together to remember VE day”

Elisabeta Carmen Surligeanu, Home Manager at Charlotte House, 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 Charlotte House for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Charlotte House is a purpose-built care home which has been designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence. The home provides full-time residential, nursing and specialist dementia care for older people in Isleworth, as well as short-term respite care, and incorporates plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies.