Norwich care home invites community to honour VE Day

A Norwich 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 Cavell Court, on Dragonfly Lane, 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 Cavell Court, the team has been hard at work organising their own special commemorative street party, which will see residents and the community get together to enjoy delicious food, entertainment and dancing as they embrace the spirit of the 1940s. 

In addition, local singer Simon Fay will be singing tunes from the 1940s and the home will host traditional garden games including hopscotch, quoits, and ball games. 

Resident Brenda Burman, aged 89, said: “It is so important to remember VE day, it was such a celebration for the war to be over and you know how much I love a street party.”

Pedro Campos, Home Manager at Cavell Court, 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 Cavell Court for a nostalgic and heartwarming day to remember!”

Cavell Court is a modern care home which provides full-time residential and dementia care, as well as short-term respite care. Designed to enable residents to live enjoyable and fulfilling lives, the care home has its very own cinema and hair and beauty salon, and there is plenty of space both indoors and out for relaxation and recreation.