A Surbiton care home will welcome veterans, their family and friends through its doors when it hosts open days in March.

Royal Star & Garter in Upper Brighton Road will showcase the outstanding person-centred care it delivers during the open days, on March 15 and 16. Those wishing to attend are asked to register in advance.

The Home provides loving, compassionate care to veterans and their partners living with disability or dementia. It welcomes anyone who has served in the UK Armed Forces, including Reservists and those who completed National Service.

The open days are for veterans or partners of veterans, as well as an accompanying relative or friend, and takes place between 2-4pm on both days.

Those attending will be given a snapshot of everyday life at Royal Star & Garter. They will have the chance to chat to senior staff, including Surbiton Home Manager Helena Maher, carers and members of the Wellbeing Team, over a cuppa and a slice of cake.

They will also be offered a tour of the Home, which will take in the in-house physiotherapy room and hair salon, garden, activities room and lounges.

A range of arts, crafts, music and cookery activities will also be taking place, which visitors can watch or take part in.

‘I’m very happy’

The Home held similar open days last year. Among those who attended in 2023 was Mary, 99, whose husband served in the Navy. She is now a permanent resident at the Home, and said: “Since coming here I’ve put on weight and I’ve been on boat trips and to concerts at the Royal Albert Hall. I like the bingo, I like flower arranging, I like the singing activities. I do the exercise classes each morning, and Pilates sessions, and I’m steadier on my feet now. I’m very happy.”

Home Manager Helena said: “Looking for a care home for yourself or someone you love can be scary and daunting. But our open days will give people the chance to see the exceptional care we provide veterans and their partners, and hopefully ease those worries. Visitors can participate in a range of activities, and tour the Home with staff on hand to answer any questions they may have. We’re looking forward to showing them the great work we do.”

The open days take place from 2-4pm on 15 March and 16 March. Those wishing to attend are asked to register their interest online through Eventbrite, with places limited to two per booking. To register interest, please go to www.starandgarter.org/openday. If you are unable to register online, please call 020 8339 5100.

If you are unable to attend the open days but would like a tour of the Home or to speak to staff about becoming a resident, please email Surbiton.enquiries@starandgarter.org or call 020 8339 5100.

Address: Royal Star & Garter, Upper Brighton Road, Surbiton, KT6 6JY

For more information about the Surbiton Home, go to www.starandgarter.org/surbiton