Chartwell House Unites Veterans at Cream Tea Celebration
Chartwell House Care Home opened its doors on Monday 23 June to host a Salute to the Services Strawberry Cream Tea, bringing together veterans, residents, families, local dignitaries, and military charities to celebrate the contribution of the Armed Forces community. The event, held between 3pm and 6pm, was organised in partnership with East Kent Mind and coordinated by Armed Forces Connector Karen Brinkman, with funding from the Veterans’ Foundation.
Guests enjoyed freshly prepared strawberry cream teas made with 25 punnets of strawberries sourced from nearby Rose Farm Shop, reflecting Chartwell House’s commitment to supporting local producers. The afternoon was brought to life by a musical performance from The Serenaders Choir, led by Janice Regan, and light-hearted entertainment from comedians representing the Canterbury Branch of the Royal Marines Association.
Among those in attendance were Nicola Ward from the RAF Benevolent Fund, Councillor Debra Owen-Hughes, Chair of Thanet District Council, and Councillor George Rusiecki, Mayor of Broadstairs, a turnout that reflected the wider community’s commitment to recognising and supporting veterans and their families.
The event formed part of East Kent Mind’s Armed Forces Connector programme, which works to improve wellbeing and reduce social isolation among veterans by building stronger community networks. Funding from the Veterans’ Foundation, which has awarded millions of pounds to organisations supporting serving personnel, veterans, and their families across the UK, made the project possible.
Chartwell House resident Bob Campbell, who served 25 years in the RAF, said: “The event was first class. I got to speak to other ex-servicemen and women, and caught up with old school friends going back over 80 years. Everyone was friendly and it was thoroughly enjoyable.”
Jaye Dry, Admissions Manager at Chartwell House Care Home, said: “We were honoured to welcome so many veterans, community partners and local guests to Chartwell House for this special celebration. The afternoon was filled with laughter, music and wonderful conversations, and it was heartwarming to see residents and veterans sharing stories and creating new friendships. Events like this remind us of the importance of community and recognising the service and sacrifices made by our Armed Forces.”
As a Veteran Friendly Framework accredited care home, Chartwell House is committed to understanding and supporting the unique experiences of veterans living within the home and the wider Armed Forces community. The accreditation reflects the home’s person-centred approach to care, which acknowledges residents’ military backgrounds, encourages reminiscence, and fosters connections with veteran support networks.
The event is one of a series of community initiatives that reinforce Chartwell House’s role as a gathering place for local residents, families, and organisations, giving veterans and residents alike a space to connect, share stories, and feel recognised.
