Trust in Care - Edition 49 (Winter 2025)

Forward together Page 6

Celebrating excellence Page 10

Gardening for the senses Page 14

Trust in Care EDITION 49 · WINTER 2025

The Recycled Teenagers vs TV’s The Chaser A charity quiz for BBC Children in Need Page 17 T H E M AG A Z I N E O F T H E O R D E R S O F S T J O H N C A R E T R U S T

WINTER WELLNESS

BE WINTER READY

LET’S ALL STAY ALERT HELP REDUCE TAKE ACTION SERIOUS ILLNESS KEEP WELL Steps to take:

Wash your

Be alert to signs of Wash your illness in yourself, in our handsand often residents clients

Get your free hands often flu vaccination

Get your free* Be alert to flu vaccination

Stay home if you have infectious symptoms infectious Employees mustsymptoms speak to their

signs of illness Subject to eligibility *

Stay home if you have manager if they feel unwell

osjct.co.uk/winter-well for Visit osjct.co.uk/winter-ready fordetails details 02

A message from Dan, our Chief Executive In a world that seems to evolve faster every day, keeping pace with change and turning it to our advantage has never been more important. The pace of progress can sometimes feel relentless, but more often than not, it is driving us toward something better: smarter ways of working, stronger connections, and greater opportunities to make a difference.

At OSJCT, we’re embracing change with energy and purpose. The recent transfer of colleagues from The Fremantle Trust has brought new strengths, fresh perspectives, and valuable opportunities, allowing us to grow together and deliver

49 happening 04 What’s across The Orders

of St John Care Trust

even greater support to those who rely on us (pages 6-9). Our ongoing improvements to buildings and spaces are also creating environments where people can thrive (pages 5, 14 and 15).

Our wonderful residents and tenants inspire us every day and remind us why our work matters – and why continuing to evolve and improve our services is so important (pages 16-17).

But none of these initiatives succeed on their own. Real progress happens because of the people behind them – talented and dedicated team members, volunteers, families and stakeholders – all united by a commitment to our residents’ wellbeing. Importantly, through our awards programme, we proudly recognise and celebrate the remarkable ways our colleagues and volunteers bring about meaningful change and enrich the lives of everyone in our care (pages 10-13).

Thank you to everyone who contributes their energy, expertise, and enthusiasm to the Trust. You are the reason we continue to grow, adapt, and succeed. Together, we are building not just a stronger organisation, but a brighter future for everyone.

excellence 10 Celebrating in care

the press 16 In OSJCT in the news

Awards programme

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Gardening for the senses Trust in Bloom

together 06 Forward Group update

Dan Hayes OBE Chief Executive

a difference 18 Making Our volunteers

This magazine is printed using biodegradable inks on FSC-certified paper, sourced in an environmentally friendly, socially-responsible manner.

08 Introducing Learning disabilities

www.osjct.co.uk

service

0800 988 8133 The Orders of St John Care Trust is a not-for-profit charity. Registered charity No. 1048355. Registered in England and Wales with company no. 03073089. Registered office: Eyre Court, Whisby Way, Lincoln LN6 3LQ. The Orders of St. John Care Trust is a trading name used by The Fremantle Trust under licence.

The Fremantle Trust (registered in England and Wales, no. 02722437). Registered office: Woodley House, 64-65 Rabans Close, Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire HP19 8RS.

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What’s happening across The Orders of St John Care Trust Back to the floor: Mike’s day as ‘home manager’ at Wellford Gardens Group Operations Director, Mike Stredder, recently spent a full day ‘back to the floor’ at Wellford Gardens in Wheatley, Oxfordshire, stepping into the shoes of a home manager to experience the rhythm, challenges and joys of daily life in an OSJCT care home.

Mike’s day began bright and early at 7:30am, joining the night-to-day handover. “I was reminded of how busy a home manager’s day is,” he said. “From coordinating care to supporting families and managing operations - it’s a balancing act, and our team does it brilliantly.”

OSJCT pays tribute to first CEO, Brigadier (Rtd) Johnny Walker OBE DL OStJ OSJCT marked the passing of Brigadier Johnny Walker, the Trust’s first Chief Executive, with sadness, gratitude, and admiration for a life defined by service, leadership, and compassion.

He joined the team’s ‘10 at 10’, a quick check-in to review the day’s priorities, activities and menu, and share key updates. Impressed by the teamwork and clear communication, Mike observed, “The synchronisation between colleagues is a testament to the strong culture at Wellford Gardens.”

Mike made time to connect with residents, sharing fish and chips, enjoying live jazz, and chatting with Jonathan, who, like Mike, is from Nottinghamshire. “We discovered we both know the same village - it was a lovely reminder of how small the world can feel,” he said.

He also spent time with Eve, the new receptionist. “She’s only been with us a couple of months, but you’d think she’d been here for years. Her bright smile and warm welcome set the

sense of duty to the charitable sector, becoming Director at OSJCT. He played a pivotal role in the acquisition of Lincolnshire care homes from the local authority.

Under his guidance, morale improved, occupancy rose, and a culture of dignity and compassion

tone for everyone.”

Reflecting on his day, Mike praised the team: “Regardless of role, everyone contributes to the positive experience our residents enjoy.

We’re so fortunate to have such dedicated people who go above and beyond to put smiles on faces.” flourished. He also secured Wellingore Hall, Lincoln, as the Trust’s first headquarters, and championed NVQ-based staff training - laying the foundations for professional development across the organisation.

By the time he left in 1999 to join the Royal British Legion, OSJCT had established itself as a trusted and growing provider of care.

Dan Hayes, current CEO, said: “Johnny’s legacy at OSJCT is enormous. He was influential in shaping our approach to loving care. We owe him a huge debt of gratitude.”

Educated at Dulwich College and trained at the Royal Military Academy Sandhurst, Johnny was commissioned into the Duke of Wellington’s Regiment, serving with distinction worldwide. His exemplary military service was recognised with the OBE in 1987.

After retiring from the Army in 1992, Johnny brought his leadership and

Group Operations Director Mike spent a day caring for residents

Brigadier (Rtd) Johnny Walker OBE DL OstJ

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Even after formal retirement, Johnny remained active with veterans’ charities and led battlefield tours across Europe. He died peacefully on 9 March 2025, aged 83, survived by his wife Sue, three daughters, and five grandchildren.

Wing View Care Centre opens its doors to first residents Wing View Care Centre has proudly welcomed its first residents following an extensive refurbishment. As the only care home in Wing, Buckinghamshire, it will play a central role in community life - offering a safe, welcoming home for older people and a vibrant hub for families, friends, and neighbours.

The home has been carefully designed to provide a true homefrom-home environment. Spacious en-suite bedrooms, cosy lounges, landscaped gardens, and a bright bistro space create the perfect balance of comfort, independence, and social connection. Every detail has been planned with residents’ wellbeing in mind, from calming décor and accessible layouts to inviting communal areas.

Care Leader Charlotte Rymer welcomes new residents Cheryl Garrett and Jerry Blyth

“Our vision is to provide a place where residents can live well, feel valued, and remain connected to the people and things that matter most,” said Home Manager, Julie Reeve.

“It’s about much more than care; it’s about creating a community.”

Life at Wing View will be varied and engaging, with a full calendar of music, art, gardening, and

community events. Whether enjoying quiet time or lively conversation, residents will always have the freedom to choose how they spend their days.

With its first residents settling in, Wing View is ready to take its place at the heart of Wing village for years to come.

The Order of St John and Order of Malta in England mark historic partnership in care This year marks the 50th anniversary of the first formal association between the Order of Malta and the Order of St John in England to establish a care home for older people.

Both Orders share a long tradition of caring for others, and their

L-R HRH The Duke of Gloucester, Mark Everall, Lady Celestria Hales

formal partnership in 1975 laid the foundation for what is today The Orders of St John Care Trust – now one of the UK’s leading not-for-profit care providers.

From its beginnings at St Wilfrid’s Priory in Arundel, the Trust has grown into a leading not-for-profit provider, supporting thousands of older people and individuals with learning disabilities across England. Guided by the values of dignity, respect, compassion, and community, the Trust continues the charitable legacy of its founders, reinvesting any surplus to improve services and enrich residents’ lives.

Mark Everall, Chairman of Trustees, reflected: “Fifty years ago, our two Orders joined forces with a shared vision: to serve those most in need.

That vision remains at the heart of 05

everything we do today. From one home, we have grown into a leading provider - but our mission has never changed.”

To mark the occasion, past and present leaders gathered with HRH The Duke of Gloucester, Grand Prior of the Order of St John, for a special reception.

To keep up to date with the latest news and projects at OSJCT, visit www.osjct.co.uk/news

SCAN ME

Forward Together: The Orders of St John Care Trust completes merger with The Fremantle Trust Following the merger in February 2024, 1,300 employees from The Fremantle Trust in Buckinghamshire officially transferred to OSJCT on Monday 1 September.

This transfer marks an exciting milestone in OSJCT’s journey to build an even stronger organisation dedicated to providing the highest quality of care, now and in the future.

Buckinghamshire care homes and learning disability services celebrated their transfer to OSJCT with special events for employees and residents.

Parties in homes started with a video

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message from CEO Dan Hayes OBE and a screening of A Real Home, showing the history of OSJCT, followed by a speech from the home manager and a representative from the senior leadership team. Services also enjoyed local entertainers and karaoke along with refreshments.

These celebrations reminded everyone of shared core values and marked new beginnings for Buckinghamshire

services. In this article, we share some photos from the events.

Dan said: “We’re delighted to welcome colleagues from our Buckinghamshire services - formerly known as The Fremantle Trust - as we come together as one Trust. This is a proud moment for us all, as we celebrate the dedication, compassion, and teamwork that continue to make a real difference in so many lives.”

Together with Elmfield Care, a whollyowned subsidiary, OSJCT now supports over 4,000 people and employs more than 6,000 people across 75 registered care homes, 8 extra care housing schemes, 5 residential and 11 supported living services for people with learning disabilities, in Buckinghamshire, Gloucestershire, Lincolnshire, Oxfordshire, Suffolk, West Sussex, and Wiltshire.

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Introducing OSJCT’s learning disabilities service across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes The learning disabilities service across Buckinghamshire and Milton Keynes is delivered by skilled and compassionate teams who work in partnership with individuals, families, and other specialists. Here, Lorraine McGinley, Area Operations Manager, provides an overview of how the service supports 220 people to lead empowered and fulfilling lives.

By actively listening to individuals, families, and other learning disabilities professionals, the service develops personalised support plans that reflect what matters most to each person. Strong links with local communities and groups help ensure that people feel fully included in everyday life.

Supported Living Supported Living enables adults with learning disabilities to live as independently as possible in shared

housing, private flats, or communitybased homes. Individuals hold their own tenancies, and support is tailored to their needs and lifestyles.

This may include 24/7 on-site assistance or occasional checkins, depending on each person’s preferences.

Care plans are developed in close collaboration with individuals and their families, focusing on personal goals, routines, and choices.

This flexible, person-centred approach promotes independence, confidence, and autonomy.

Supported Living is available in

Commitment to quality A key factor in the success of the service is the careful matching of residents with support workers to build strong relationships and achieve positive outcomes. The service benefits from the guidance of a dedicated Care Quality Lead, and team members are equipped with the specialist skills required to meet the complex needs of residents.

Lorraine McGinley,

Area Operations Manager Lorraine McGinley

Area Operations Manager for learning disabilities, said: 08

Aylesbury, Chesham, High Wycombe, and Milton Keynes.

Residential care Residential care provides a safe and supportive environment for adults with learning disabilities and complex needs, including dementia and age-related conditions. The focus is on promoting independence while delivering consistent, highquality care tailored to each individual.

Homes are located throughout the county and accommodate between

“I am excited that we have joined OSJCT, and I hope this will bring greater recognition and integration of these services, allowing for further development and innovation.

We have a dedicated and expert team, with longstanding managers and support workers. I look forward to more successful outcomes for people like Anthony, Simon, Sam, and Katherine.”

six and fifteen residents who are supported by colleagues with daily living, medication, and personal care. Community involvement is a key feature, with opportunities for social activities, education, volunteering, and outings such as holidays, theatre visits, and boat trips.

Personal Stories These stories highlight the positive impact of the service in fostering independence, meaningful relationships, and personal development.

Two residential homes for people with learning disabilities are co-located with care homes for older people, encouraging intergenerational engagement through shared events like coffee mornings, summer fairs, and creative workshops.

Sam and Katherine

Evolving care practices Care for people with learning disabilities has evolved significantly over recent decades. Prior to the 1990s, support was often provided in large institutions with limited personal autonomy and community access. Today, individuals live in smaller residential homes or Supported Living arrangements that offer greater independence.

Supported Living marked a cultural shift, enabling individuals to hold their own tenancies and manage their own lives. Clients now claim housing benefits, choose their own activities, and live in personalised environments. For many, having their own front door and control over their daily lives has been transformative.

The COVID-19 pandemic disrupted traditional day services and prompted alternative opportunities such as employment, volunteering, and community engagement. These changes have contributed to personal growth and greater societal integration.

Residential services now focus on supporting individuals with complex needs, while Supported Living continues to promote independence and community involvement.

Sam and Katherine on their wedding day

Sam and Katherine, who both have Down’s syndrome, have received long-term support from the Milton Keynes Supported Living service. The childhood sweethearts delighted their families and support teams when they got married. The service assists them with managing their tenancy, finances, and household tasks. Over time, they have grown in confidence and enjoy activities such as ballroom dancing and spending time both together and independently.

Anthony Anthony, who has autism, initially found it challenging to adjust to change and engage with the community after moving into Supported Living. With the help of a carefully matched support worker, he gradually gained confidence.

His enthusiasm for cars led to a part-time job at a local showroom, and in February this year, he proudly passed his driving test with encouragement from his support team.

Simon Simon, who has a learning disability and autism, lives in a shared house and enjoys gardening.

He volunteers at a community allotment and regularly engages with the local community. With ongoing support, Simon’s confidence has grown significantly.

His passion for gardening earned him a ‘Highly Commended’ award in the OSJCT Trust in Bloom 2025 competition. Read more about Simon’s Trust in Bloom award on pages 14 and 15.

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Simon enjoys many interests

Celebrating excellence in care Every year, the Trust’s prestigious awards programme honours and celebrates the extraordinary skill, passion and commitment of employees and volunteers whose efforts ensure residents enjoy happy, healthy and meaningful lives.

The Trust Recognition Awards celebrate the exceptional achievements and dedicated efforts of employees and volunteers. This year there were 30 winners across six award categories: Exceptional Dedication to Caring, Outstanding Community Engagement, The Empowerment Award, Unsung Hero of the Year, Inspirational Leader and Making a Difference Volunteering Award.

Candidates are nominated by colleagues, volunteers, residents and their families and friends. Finalists attend special regional ceremonies, where senior leaders and trustees present winners with certificates and trophies for these and other awards.

Notable qualifications are also formally recognised during these ceremonies.

This year, 112 colleagues were awarded a qualification, ranging from Level 2 to Level 7.

Fifty-six employees were recognised for a total of 1,440 years’ service at this year’s awards.

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“Being recognised for what I do isn’t something I expect, but it’s something I deeply appreciate and accept with great pride and humility. Our work is incredibly fulfilling every day — to receive an award for it is truly the icing on the cake.

“The Trust Recognition Awards serve as a powerful reminder that although we work across different services, we share a common goal — to uphold Trust values and make a meaningful difference in every role and decision we undertake.”

Laura Beadle, Home Manager, Henry Cornish Care Centre, Chipping Norton, and winner of the Inspirational Leader Award

“This Award means the most to me, after 13 years at the Trust, I’m passionate about promoting intergenerational links and fostering community connections. I love speaking to children, teenagers and those early in their careers about our care home and encouraging them to cross the threshold to see for themselves what a lovely place it is to live, visit, or work.”

Gemma Joynes, Care Leader, Edwardstow Court and winner of the Outstanding Community Engagement Award – Private Collection

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Awarded to those who have gone above and beyond their role, the Chairman’s Commendation for Meritorious Service recognises employees and volunteers who have made a profound difference to residents’ lives.

“I feel very honoured to have received this award and I will continue to give my all to Skirbeck.”

Sarah Royston, Carer, Beckside

Medals of Merit are presented by the British Association of the Sovereign Order of Malta (BASMOM) at a special investiture and mass at The Brompton Oratory in London to employees and volunteers in

recognition of their exemplary service to social care. This prestigious accolade highlights the dedication and exceptional support medallists provide to the Trust and its residents. Fourteen employees were honoured with medals this year.

Some of this year’s medallists at the investiture

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The Order of Malta is one of OSJCT’s sponsoring orders and has been dedicated to caring for those in need since the Middle Ages.

The Order continues to provide professional medical, social and humanitarian aid around the world today.

Named in honour of OSJCT’s first chairman of the Board of Trustees, the Nigel Stourton Award recognises an individual or team in Lincolnshire who has demonstrated exceptional commitment and made an outstanding contribution to resident care. Nigel was instrumental in shaping the Trust and was awarded a CBE in 2008 for his charitable work.

Long Service Awards

This year, 56 employees were recognised for a total of 1,440 years’ service. Long Service Awards recognise employees who have completed 20 years or more of

SCAN ME

Visit osjct.co.uk/news and search by award for this year’s winners 13

continuous service. Their loyalty, experience, and deep understanding of the Trust’s values play an essential role in supporting residents and strengthening our care community.

Bloom TRUST IN

Vitality 2025

Fifty-two OSJCT homes and services entered Trust in Bloom 2025 to enhance and show their outdoor and indoor garden spaces for the annual competition. Residents, volunteers, teams and supporters rose to the challenge of this year’s theme - gardening for the senses.

After three rounds of judging and careful deliberations by senior leaders in the Trust, the three divisional winners and joint overall Trust in Bloom 2025 winners were chosen. An additional 70 certificates were given out to category winners or runners-up, or to recognise Highly Commended and Most Improved gardens.

Community involvement was key to Hartsholme’s success this year. In June, the CQC-rated Outstanding home hosted a “Tea for a Plant” garden party, inviting guests to donate plants in exchange for homemade cake. Whimsical additions include a planted-up model cow and a Golden Throne Fairy Garden (pictured).

Home Manager Cheryl Gilderdale said: “Winning again is a fantastic achievement. I’m so proud of our team and everyone who helped transform the gardens. For residents

Lindsey Worthy, Home Manager, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our team and residents for what we’ve achieved together in the gardens.

Trust in Bloom has given us a wonderful opportunity to celebrate the creativity, care, and community spirit that makes Paternoster House so special. Our outdoor spaces are more than just gardens—they’re places where memories are made, wellbeing is nurtured, and everyone feels at home.”

The gardens are cultivated by longterm volunteers Carol, Daphne and

Creative miniature fairy garden made by young volunteer, Blake, pictured with his mum, Helen Dewison, Housekeeper, Hartsholme House

Hartsholme House joint Trust in Bloom 2025 overall garden winner

living with dementia, communication can be difficult - but the joy on their

faces when they see the flowers and wildlife says it all.”

Volunteers Carol, Daphne and Chris

Paternoster House joint Trust in Bloom 2025 overall garden winner Chris. They take a great deal of pride in developing the extensive garden areas at the care home, whether it is

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the flowering shrubs and creative tiles at the front, planters in the back or the vegetable garden.

Simon, who has learning disabilities, has a passion for gardening and works at Haversham allotments, near to where he lives, each week.

Highly Commended Simon, Milton Keynes Supported Living service

Simon (right) with Dan Hayes, showing his garden for Trust in Bloom

He entered Trust in Bloom this year, demonstrating how he has maximised the potential of the small space outside his house. Simon created a thriving, colourful, and edible garden, growing sweetcorn, onions, tomatoes, and beetroot, all from a space less than 3ft square.

Lake House, Oxfordshire care home winner

Lake House Home Manager Alex (left) with avid resident gardener Sue

Special garden features at this home in Adderbury include items linked with the village’s history such as an agricultural wheel and handmade pompoms representing the local wool industry. The home also has a calm reflection garden with plants and bushes donated by family members, a colourful meadow garden and a fruit tree orchard.

For Sue, a resident who lives at Lake House with her husband, gardening at the home evokes childhood memories living on a farm. “I was always outside - fresh air, happy just being out is nice. My mother was a keen gardener. She filled half an orchard with vegetables. When I garden here, I think of her.”

Edwardstow Court, Private Collection care home winner

Representatives from Maintel presenting divisional prize to team members at Edwardstow Court

These gardens in Stow-on-the-Wold are nurtured by an established team of volunteers, friends, families and supporters of the home. Several distinct areas and features create a sensory journey for residents and visitors alike. These include vibrant

flower beds, personalised hanging baskets and the care home’s woodland walk. “This award is a pat on the back for everyone who put in the time and effort,” said Matthew Peach, Home Manager.

Sir Aubrey Ward House, Buckinghamshire care home winner

Annie Sherwin, Activities Coordinator with Wendy Luck, Home Manager, Sir Aubrey Ward House

This care home in Marlow runs gardening sessions every weekday after breakfast, weather permitting, where residents take part in planting, watering, weeding and deadheading to keep their garden blooming.

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Annie Sherwin, Activities Coordinator, added: “Our residents absolutely love the garden. Whether they’re watering plants, playing games, or enjoying ice cream in the sun, it’s a space that brings joy every day.”

IN THE PRESS Every week residents, tenants, employees and volunteers in our homes and extra care housing schemes achieve and celebrate happy milestones. Here are just a handful of those stories which make the headlines. Read more stories at osjct.co.uk/news

A wish come true with Patch the Pig at Lewin House When Lewin House resident Doris was asked what she would most like to do through the Aylesbury home’s Wishes and Dreams initiative, her answer was simple: “I’d love my own pig.”

Doris has always had a soft spot for pigs, and thanks to the creativity and care of the Lewin House team, her wish soon became a reality in the form of Patch the Pig, a charming hand-made papier-mâché creation.

Patch made her public debut at the Florence Nightingale Hospice Charity summer fete, where visitors were invited to help decorate her with colourful designs. Children and adults alike joined in, transforming Patch into a joyful symbol of community and kindness. Patch now proudly sits outside Doris’s room at Lewin House The stall raised £70 for the hospice, a cause close to the hearts of many residents and staff. But for Doris, the real reward was seeing her wish come to life. “I love pigs,” she said. “And I’m so happy Patch helped raise money for such a worthy cause.”

Home Manager Katie Ruseva reflected: “Seeing Doris’s wish come true was wonderful. Patch has brought smiles to everyone here and reminds us how meaningful moments can come from the smallest wishes.”

The papier-mâché pig was transformed at community events

Beckside celebrates 40 years with memories of a Royal visit Beckside, in North Hykeham, celebrated 40 years of care this year. Since opening its doors in 1985, Beckside has been a muchloved part of the local community, supporting residents and families with warmth and compassion.

One of the home’s most cherished memories is the visit of the late Princess Diana in its founding year. To mark the anniversary, Ron Bell, a former protection officer during the Royal visit, recently returned to Beckside with a folder of original newspapers from that special day.

Ron said: “It was a beautiful sunny day. Diana looked stunning in her blue and white striped outfit. Her warmth radiated to the crowds who had gathered to see her, 16

Princess Di visited Beckside in 1985

and she showed such kindness to everyone.”

Also remembering the occasion was Paula Robinson, now a volunteer at Beckside, who was 14 at the time. Paula commented: “Princess Diana was just absolutely beautiful and smiled the whole time. I waited over three hours with my friends to see her arrive. It was – and still is – one of the most special days for me.”

Monkscroft Care Centre honours veterans and their spouses

Isis House takes on TV’s quiz genius The Chaser for BBC Children in Need

Residents, families and guests gathered at Monkscroft Care Centre in Cheltenham for a moving military recognition ceremony honouring six veterans and four spouses who proudly served, or supported those who served, in the Royal Air Force, the Army and the Royal Marines.

Residents and employees from Isis House in Oxford were specially chosen by the BBC to pit their wits against TV’s Chaser, Darragh ‘The Menace’ Ennis, in a special quiz challenge as part of the broadcaster’s Children in Need appeal.

Terry Lindop, a volunteer at the home and a veteran himself, organised and led the ceremony.

Major Marius Visser, Officer Commanding, 14 Squadron Gurkha Allied Rapid Reaction Corps Support Battalion, shared words of reflection and personally presented each honouree with a certificate recognising

Monkscroft hosted a special ceremony recognising veterans and spouses

their service and contribution.

Members of the Military Provost Guard Service and other military representatives also joined the event, adding to the sense of occasion.

Edith Bennett, 102, Philip Eden, 92, and Anthony Bowden, 86, were among the residents honoured at the ceremony. They shared their wartime experiences with the BBC’s regional TV and radio news programme, Points West - a poignant reminder of the courage, dedication and sacrifice of a generation who served their country with pride.

Home Manager Doreen Paisley said: “This event was born out of the pride our veterans feel when sharing their stories. It was our privilege to celebrate their courage and to honour the wives whose strength and support have been the foundation of their families.”

A special anniversary celebration took place at the home, featuring speeches, live music, and a buffet lunch for residents, families, and guests. Activities Co-ordinator Shirley Holt said: “This milestone is a celebration for our residents - the heart of everything Beckside stands for.

Forty years on, the love, care and community spirit remain as strong as ever.”

Edith, Philip and Anthony shared their stories with the BBC

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The care home’s quiz team, affectionately dubbed ‘Recycled Teenagers’ by residents themselves, included: residents Sheila ‘Star Buck’ Coles and Betty ‘Hit4Six’ Fathers; Mike ‘Captured by The Chaser’ Stredder, Group Operations Director; and Kelly ‘Krazy Karma’ Allen, Home Manager, Isis House; and a sub-in from Vilma Collaku, Peripatetic Operations Manager.

Fellow residents and carers cheered on, and Pudsey Bear made a special appearance, bringing some extra smiles.

Sheila, who nailed the question about Freddie Mercury’s real name during the quiz, said: “I am a huge fan of The Chase and it’s always been my wish to meet Darragh. I can’t believe my dream has come true, and what’s more, we’ve had so much fun trying to beat him!”

Kelly added: “Being specially selected by the BBC to take part in this quiz with The Chaser is a unique opportunity for our residents and colleagues. We are delighted to support such a meaningful cause.

The quiz team’s enthusiasm perfectly captures the community spirit that’s at the heart of all our care homes, and BBC Children in Need.”

Isis House cheers on the quiz team

Making a difference: when businesses give back One of the most valuable gifts a business can give is time. When a company chooses to step away from day-to-day work and spend time volunteering in one of our care homes, the impact is felt on every level. Residents enjoy seeing new faces, homes benefit from extra help on big projects, and volunteers return to work with the satisfaction of making a real difference. those using wheelchairs or walking frames, by providing a smooth and accessible route True to Edwardstow tradition, Chef Ellen made sure the team were well fuelled, serving up one of her famous lunches and topping it off with a giant homemade cake.

By the end of the afternoon, the gardens had been transformed, with progress made far beyond expectations.

That’s exactly what happened recently at Edwardstow Court Care Centre in Stow-on-the-Wold, when the team welcomed back a group of volunteers from Network Rail. This was the company’s fourth visit to the home, and once again they came ready to roll up their sleeves and get stuck in.

The group spent the day working in the gardens, helping to prepare the

grounds for winter and tackling jobs that would otherwise have taken weeks. Beds were cleared, plants divided and replanted, and borders tidied for the coming season. Some of the team also turned their hand to heavier work, supporting the creation of a brand-new footpath linking the front and back gardens.

This new pathway will make life easier for residents, particularly

A big thank you also goes to Fosseway Tool Hire Ltd, who generously loaned equipment free of charge. Their support, alongside the enthusiasm of the Network Rail team, helped make the new accessible path possible.

Residents also enjoyed watching the activity from their windows, waving and cheering the volunteers on as they worked. The volunteers returned to work knowing they were valued and that they’ve created something that truly matters. It’s a win-win for everyone.

Know a business looking for something fun and rewarding to do for a day?

We have opportunities across all our homes. To register your interest, email volunteer@osjct.co.uk 18

What families say about us We aim to provide the highest standard of loving care for all of our residents and tenants. Don’t just take our word for it, here are some recent reviews from across our regions, taken from independent consumer website carehome.co.uk.

Lincolnshire

Buckinghamshire

Gloucestershire Oxfordshire

Suffolk

Wiltshire

West Sussex

review score

Longlands

9.7

Chestnut Court

9.8

Hartsholme House

9.9

“From the minute we arrived at Longlands with my father-in-law we could feel the warmth and friendliness. We were all made to feel welcome at any time. We could see in the short time he has been there that my father-in-law was thriving.”

“The care and support we received from Chestnut Court for both our parents and us as a family was absolutely incredible. They allowed us to make it ‘our home’ as well as mum’s, with all the care staff, nurses and management making us extremely welcome.”

“My mother enjoys her time there and always appears positive and energised when I collect her. She participates in the cooking, bingo and other activities provided by the staff. This is an excellent facility managed by caring professional people.”

Lewin House

St Wilfrid’s Priory

Goodson Lodge

9.9

“From the moment we arrived and mum was welcomed by the staff and shown her lovely room, we felt sure she would be happy there. I always feel that mum is safe and secure at Lewin House.”

9.7

“Absolutely lovely home.

Manager and staff do a great job nothing is ever too much bother.

I visit my friend regularly and everybody is always friendly and happy. Food is really good as my friend tells me and she enjoys all the different activities.”

Reviews are verbatim and scores are correct at time of print.

To see all of our homes and services, visit osjct.co.uk/find-somewhere-to-live 19

9.8

“My mother has been a resident of this lovely care home for 16 months. Knowing she is safe & so well-cared for gives me peace of mind every day.”

I never thought...

I’d enjoy gardening again until I moved to an OSJCT care home Our caring teams at The Orders of St John Care Trust (OSJCT) are passionate about supporting you and your family to live your best lives during your time in our care homes. We believe in taking the time to get to know each individual and tailor the experience so it’s personal to you.

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We’re a charity OSJCT is a not-for-profit charitable organisation. This means that we reinvest back into our residents, team members and care homes.

www.osjct.co.uk 0800 988 8133