Mitcham care home invites local community to honour D-Day

A Mitcham care home is opening its doors to the community for a commemorative ceremony.

On Thursday 6^th June, from 3pm-5pm, Care UK’s Cumberland Nursing Home, on Whitford Gardens is welcoming local people to honour the 80^th anniversary of D-Day with its very own lamp lighting ceremony. 

To commemorate the 80^th anniversary of the Normandy Landings on 6^th June 1944, Care UK is partnering with royal pageant master Bruno Peek, CVO OBE OPR, coordinator of ‘D-Day 80 Lamp Light of Peace’. Along with the three Forces Charities and the Merchant Navy Association, over 100 Care UK homes will take part in this nationwide tribute.

At Cumberland, the team has been hard at work organising a special commemorative event which will see residents and guests enjoy a 1940s-themed party, with team members dressed in the decade’s attire. Guests will also be treated to live music from local entertainer, Davina Rae, who will be singing popular wartime songs.

The lamp, which represents the peace that followed the end of World War Two, will be lit at 11am by resident, Patrick Doolan, who served in the army in the 50’s and was stationed in Germany. 

Portia Nleya, Home Manager at Cumberland, said: “Here at Cumberland, we’re passionate about playing an active role in our community, so we’re delighted to be joining a nationwide initiative, opening our doors to mark the 80^th anniversary of D-Day.

“Reminiscence activities are a great way for older people, and those living with dementia, to connect with those around them and help maintain a sense of identity. In the run up to the day, residents have been sharing their own stories and memories, and it’s been fantastic to hear everyone’s experiences as we learn from one another.

“We’re looking forward to welcoming new and old faces to Cumberland for what we anticipate will be a heartfelt afternoon for everyone involved!”  

To find out more about how Care UK is supporting the initiative, please visit: careuk.com/dday-80th-anniversary

Cumberland has been designed to encourage residents to live active and fulfilling lives, while remaining as independent as possible in a safe environment. The state-of-the-art care home incorporates space for hobby and leisure activities. The layout of the building is configured into a series of individual suites, each having a dedicated lounge/dining room, to facilitate the creation of close-knit communities.