South West London care homes invite community to honour VE Day

Three South West London care homes are opening their doors to the community to mark 80 years since the end of World War II.  

Care UK’s Whitefarm Lodge, in Twickenham, Greville House, in Richmond, and Laurel Dene, in Hampton, are welcoming local people to honour the 80th anniversary of VE Day with their own 1940s-themed celebrations. 

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. 

The timings of each event are as follows:

At Greville House, guests will be transported back in time as team members transform the home and dress in 1940s attire.

Over at Laurel Dene, guests can sing along and dance to wartime classics performed by the D-Day Dollies as part of the home’s special street party. There will also be an opportunity to browse the street market where there will be handmade goodies and tombola.

Whitefarm Lodge will see residents and guests enjoy an afternoon of delicious food, entertainment and dancing as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s. For a more immersive experience, there will also be a vintage military vehicle for visitors to admire, as well as a special performance from Jane Beaumount, who will perform popular songs from the decade.

Barbara Harper, a resident at Whitfarm Lodge, said: “I remember all going out to the street and dancing together. I remember singing and dancing in the street when we heard the news that the war had ended. All the streets were decorated with flags, and tables were set down the middle of the road.

“My dad was in the army, and I was so happy that my dad came home safely and nothing bad happened. All ages should know about the war, so the same mistakes are not repeated.”

Shane Cosgrove, Home Manager at Whitefarm Lodge, 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.”  

Irone Johnson-Dyer, Home Manager at Greville House, added: “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 to the home for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Greville House, Laurel Dene, and Whitefarm Lodge have been designed to deliver the very best standards of care and to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives. The homes provide full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short term respite care, and offer luxurious facilities including a cinema room, café and hair and beauty salon.