70 years of Abbeyfield: celebrating Richard Carr-Gomm’s founding vision

Related homes: Across Abbeyfield Northumbria

Dancers performing on The Grove’s terrace during the anniversary celebration, with a spectator watching in the foreground.

A celebration of community

A year of celebrations marks Abbeyfield’s 70th anniversary. This summer, gatherings at Castle Farm and The Grove brought residents from our sister homes together to enjoy entertainment, meet new people and share in a special occasion.

Visiting another Abbeyfield Northumbria home offered a chance to experience life beyond familiar surroundings and spend time with the people who live there. These were days to look forward to, with good company and the pleasure of being part of a wider community.

When Richard Carr-Gomm founded Abbeyfield in 1956, his mission was to help relieve loneliness among older people through companionship and a welcoming place to live. Seventy years on, these celebrations put that founding idea into practice by bringing people together.

Celebrations at Castle Farm

Castle Farm welcomed residents and guests for a day of music, conversation and celebration. Afternoon tea, a special anniversary cake and the chance to join in the dancing gave everyone plenty to enjoy together.

For residents visiting from a sister home, the occasion was also an opportunity to get to know Castle Farm, meet new faces and share in life at another part of the Abbeyfield Northumbria community.

Celebrations at The Grove

At The Grove, residents and guests came together for a summer celebration with afternoon tea and entertainment. Performances on the terrace and time together in the marquee made space for both the excitement of the occasion and a friendly chat.

Welcoming people from our sister homes brought a wider circle of company to the day. Residents could explore different surroundings, enjoy the entertainment together and make connections beyond their own home.

A member of our team joins in the dancing at The Grove’s anniversary celebration. Play the 52-second video with sound.

Belonging to something together

For our residents, the anniversary was an opportunity to enjoy a special day, visit somewhere different and spend time with new people. For our homes, it was a celebration of the community we share.

That sense of belonging is at the heart of Abbeyfield Northumbria. Bringing people together, creating opportunities for companionship and enjoying life in good company are how we carry Richard Carr-Gomm’s founding purpose into everyday life.

Come and get to know us

Come and have a look around, meet the team and ask your questions. You’re welcome to bring someone along.

Arrange a visit

Or call our team on 0330 043 1002 (option 6).

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