After a break of over two years since its Golden Jubilee in 2006 the Abbeyfield Society relaunched its awareness raising Abbeyfield Week for 2009.
The launch by broadcaster and Abbeyfield patron, Richard Baker, took place at our Anson House care home at Great Haywood, Staffordshire on the 5th of June. Luckily, whilst most of the UK was deluged with heavy showers, the sun shone brightly and over 100 guests including the Mayor of Stafford, Councillor Mrs Jean Tabernor and local MP, David Kidney, enjoyed a summer afternoon celebration. Guests tucked into a wonderful high tea using recipes from Patron Marguerite Patten and prepared by Sue Flint's wonderful care team based at Anson House.The 100th birthday of resident Edith Allcock was also celebrated!
The event formally marks the start of a series of events taking place across the country between the 6th and the 14th of June and is prompted by Abbeyfield's view that the housing and care services we provide for older people across the UK are one of Britain's best kept secrets.
Paul Allen, Abbeyfield Chief Executive says "It's a bit like those people who don't tell you their favourite place for a holiday in case too many people want to go! Nevertheless it is key that people DO know about Abbeyfield, particularly at a local level as our supported sheltered houses and care homes are a vitalpart of the community they serve."
Richard Baker, comments "I first became aware of Abbeyfield when my mother moved in to an Abbeyfield house some years ago and am delighted to continue to support them and the excellent services they provide."
Abbeyfield Week events including open days, garden parties, coffee mornings are organised by local staff and volunteers and if there is an Abbeyfield Week event near you we would love to see you! To see more information about the events that were held across the country go to Abbeyfield week goes live.