Sunderland Care Home Marks Veteran Friendly Accreditation with Summer Celebration
Residents, families and members of the local community came together at Archers Court Care Home in Sunderland last week for a special summer afternoon celebrating the home’s commitment to those who have served.
The Farringdon-based care home recently achieved Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) accreditation, recognising its approach to supporting veteran residents and their families, and marked the occasion with the opening of a new Poppy Garden.
The summer afternoon was a wonderful opportunity for everyone to relax, enjoy time together and mark the occasion. From delicious food prepared by the care home’s catering team to drinks served at the Archers Court Pub, there was plenty to enjoy, with families making the most of quality time together in the sunshine.
Live music from local singer Derek Hodgson added to the atmosphere, with guests singing along to a selection of much-loved songs.
The VFF accreditation reflects Archers Court’s commitment to understanding the individual experiences of its veteran residents and their loved ones and providing thoughtful, person-centred care that recognises their needs and service.
A highlight of the event was the official opening of the Archers Poppy Garden, a newly created outdoor space offering residents, families and visitors somewhere peaceful to sit, reflect and remember.
The garden holds particular significance for the veterans living at Archers Court, providing a dedicated space to recognise their service and the experiences that have shaped their lives.
The event also welcomed special guests Mark Walker, President of the Royal British Legion Sunderland Branch, and Steven, Chairman, who joined the Archers Court community to recognise the home’s commitment to supporting veterans.
Sharon Easterbrook-Smith, Home Manager, said: ‘Opening our Poppy Garden and becoming VFF accredited is something we’re incredibly proud of. Supporting veterans and their families means so much to us, and we’re delighted to have created a space where their stories, experiences and service can be remembered and celebrated.’
‘For us, it’s about making sure everyone feels valued, respected and truly at home. We’re grateful to all the veterans who made the effort to come and celebrate with us.’
The Veteran Friendly Framework is a national initiative designed to help care providers better understand and respond to the unique social, emotional and physical needs of the estimated 26,500 veterans currently living in care homes across England. Accreditation demonstrates that a home has taken practical steps to identify veterans, understand their experiences, connect them with relevant services, and ensure their service is recognised and respected.
Archers Court holds a ‘good’ rating with the Care Quality Commission and is entirely dedicated to providing specialist dementia care, including vascular dementia, Alzheimer's Disease and frontotemporal dementia
It is part of the Orchard Healthcare Group, which looks after 23 care homes in the Midlands and the North of England. Every home across its portfolio has achieved a five-star food rating.