Caring for Those Who Served: Prestwick Care Partnership Launch

We have officially launched a new partnership with Veterans for Veterans in Care – a charity dedicated to supporting former servicemen and women living in care homes across the region. The event we recently hosted at one of our homes was more than symbolic: it marked the beginning of a year-long fundraising campaign aimed at honouring and supporting those who once served their country.

A proud group of former Army and Navy personnel arrived at the home to help kick off the initiative. Their presence set the tone for what this collaboration is truly about: connection, recognition, and ensuring that no veteran is left feeling forgotten.

We have committed to placing collection boxes in all 19 of our care homes across Northumberland, Newcastle, Sunderland, and North and South Tyneside. These boxes will be open for donations from staff, residents, visitors, and the wider community, and at the end of the 12-month campaign, Prestwick Care will match every pound raised.

It’s a commitment that speaks volumes, and one that comes at a time when the need is significant. According to the 2021 census, more than 26,000 armed forces veterans currently live in care homes in England and Wales. Many of them are at risk of losing the sense of camaraderie and belonging they had in the Forces, something Veterans for Veterans in Care aims to rebuild.

Lee Moore, who served with the Royal Pioneer Corps and is now an active member of the charity, captured this perfectly. “They are our forgotten army,” he said. He explained how the transition into a care home can sometimes lead to veterans feeling disconnected from the family-like bonds they once had. “It can be hard for them if they have no one to share their memories with who really knows and understands what they went through, the good times and the bad and that is where we come in.”

Supporting this work was an easy and heartfelt decision. CEO Bunty Malhotra described it simply as “a privilege” to care for those who served. “Our care homes are at the very heart of their communities, communities these men and women served to preserve,” he said. “We hope those communities will get behind our campaign and help us make a real difference.”

With the launch now underway, the next 12 months will be an opportunity for people across the North East to show their appreciation for the veterans who once dedicated their lives to protecting others. Whether through a small donation or spreading the word, every gesture will help strengthen the support network for veterans in care.

To learn more about the charity behind the campaign, visit vfvic.co.uk, and for details about Prestwick Care’s homes, go to prestwickcare.co.uk.