Newbury care homes invite community to honour VE Day

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

On Thursday 8^th May, Care UK’s Newbury Grove, on London Road, and Winchcombe Place, on Maple Crescent, 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.

At Winchcombe Place, guests are invited to join residents from 11am-3pm for a fantastic celebration involving delicious food, entertainment and dancing, where the team will be dressed in their best 1940s attire. Entertainment will include a performance by local jazz group, Juo Joy. In addition, there will be wartime vehicles on display and the home will be draped in poppies.

Those not ready to end the celebrations just yet can then head over to Newbury Grove, where the team has been hard at work organising a special commemorative event that will take place from 3pm–5pm. Guests can join residents for a 1940s-themed party.

Adarsh Kurian, General Manager at Care UK’s Newbury Grove, said: “Here at Newbury Grove, we’re always grateful for an opportunity to strengthen our relationships with the community, so we’re looking forward to welcoming people for a special event marking the 80th anniversary of VE Day. 

“Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, and 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 memories – it’s been fantastic to hear everyone’s experiences and learn from one another.”

Claire Cullen, Home Manager at Winchcombe Place, added: “This milestone holds great significance for many of our residents, and we are eager to honour all those who were involved. We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces to Winchcombe Place as we mark such a significant moment in history with our fabulous VE Day celebration.”  

Designed to enable residents to live active and fulfilled lives, while also promoting independence, Newbury Grove and Winchcombe Place incorporate plenty of space for leisure activities and hobbies. The homes provide full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care, in luxury surroundings, with facilities including a café, cinema room and hair and beauty salon.