VE Day 80: A Shared Legacy of Remembrance and Community Across Boutique Care Homes
Across the Boutique Care Homes family, residents, families, team members, and local communities came together to mark the 80th anniversary of VE Day, a day of powerful reflection, heartfelt storytelling, and joyous celebration, honouring the resilience and sacrifice of those who came before us.
At Chartwell House in Broadstairs, the home’s beautifully curated VE Day Street Party brought history to life. The day began with a poignant two-minute silence, followed by the Last Post, an emotional moment that united generations in shared remembrance. As Jude Coveney, Admissions Manager, reflected: “A truly moving and nostalgic event, bringing together all the generations and community spirit to ensure future generations are able to remember with pride the sacrifices made on our behalf. The two minutes’ silence and Last Post was a powerful and emotional moment in time, bringing many of us to tears. The day then took on all the love, laughter, music and song that we as Brits do so well. A day for the memory bank.”
The celebrations continued with live performances, community contributions, and personal tributes. Residents proudly shared their stories of wartime life, while special guests, including Alicia Emily Vocalist, Edward the pianist, and RAF Manston History Museum, added to the atmosphere of reflection and joy. As a home accredited under the Veterans Friendly Framework, Chartwell House is deeply committed to honouring the experiences of its residents who have served or lived through conflict. This dedication was felt in every moment of the day.
In Shepperton, The Burlington was honoured to be invited to Saxon School for a moving afternoon of remembrance and community. Residents were welcomed by schoolchildren singing wartime favourites, their enthusiasm lighting up the room and bringing smiles to the faces of all present. For many residents, the familiar songs sparked vivid memories, and it was deeply touching to witness children and residents singing side by side, united by shared history and mutual respect.
As the music faded, the gathering transformed into something even more meaningful. Residents and children spoke together, sharing personal stories of life during the war, evacuations, air raids, and moments of resilience that left a lasting impression on the younger generation. Later, members of the British Legion joined the event, adding a sense of dignity and pride. Home Manager Margie Gonzaga reflected: “This was a day of connection, pride and remembrance. Our residents were deeply moved to be part of something that honours their lives and history so meaningfully. It truly reminded us all of the power of storytelling, and the strength of community.”
At Brampton Manor in Newmarket, the team hosted a beautiful VE Day afternoon tea, where residents came together to mark the occasion in an atmosphere of warmth and reflection. Wartime melodies performed by Graeme Hopson created the perfect backdrop as residents sang along, shared memories, and enjoyed each other’s company. The dining area was transformed with Union Jack bunting, fresh flowers, and a delicious spread of classic treats.
The most poignant moment came when the community paused together in quiet reflection to remember those who gave so much. The afternoon concluded with a powerful group rendition of ‘We’ll Meet Again’, a moment filled with emotion and unity. Home Manager Akhi Goswami shared: “It was a privilege to witness the emotion and unity this day brought to our home. Our residents hold these memories close, and it means everything to them to see their stories remembered and celebrated. VE Day allows us to honour not just history, but the individuals who lived it.”
Each of these events reflected Boutique Care Homes’ unwavering belief in care that goes beyond the expected. Rooted in the company’s ethos of “a warm and loving family where everyone feels at home,” VE Day 80 was not just a commemoration—it was a powerful reminder of community, continuity, and compassion.
Founder Ameet Kotecha reflected: “These moments, when we honour history, connect generations, and come together in shared remembrance, speak to the very heart of who we are as a care provider. They are the reason we do what we do. At Boutique Care Homes, we’re proud to deliver care so good, it’s unexpected, and that includes recognising and celebrating the lives our residents have lived.”
To discover more about Boutique Care Homes, please visit www.www.boutiquecarehomes.co.uk.
