Care homes honour the 80th Anniversary of VE Day with music and remembrance

VE Day remains a powerful symbol of peace and unity and for many care home residents, it is a day that holds deep personal meaning.

This year’s commemorations brought generations together to honour those who served and all that were impacted by the war. With music, stories and shared reflection, the events offered the opportunity to connect, remember and celebrate the special occasion.

Austin Rose in West Heath, Birmingham, held a lively celebration where residents crafted their own bunting, enjoyed a BBQ lunch, and welcomed Year 2 pupils from John Fisher School. Everyone joined together in a wartime sing-along making the afternoon memorable for all involved.

At Blythe Rose in Solihull, residents and families came together for drinks and a selection of cakes, enjoying an afternoon full of cheer. The home is continuing to collect donations for Combat Stress, a veterans’ mental health charity, with fundraising ongoing until Friday 16th May.

At Dora Rose in Stafford, the day began with a performance from singer Kerry, who performed a selection of beloved wartime classics for residents. Over the weekend, residents also enjoyed getting creative with VE Day-themed crafts and the home opened its doors to local veterans, offering a complimentary breakfast as a token of appreciation. Members of the Royal British Legion Stafford Branch attended the event, later reporting that the day was ‘marvellous’ and it had been ‘truly enjoyable to meet and chat with other veterans’.

Meanwhile, over at Watermead Rose in Leicester, residents were joined by children's music and movement group Sidney Shakers for a VE Day party filled with song and celebration. The group led a special music and movement session featuring wartime songs, bringing generations together in joyful tribute.

In the afternoon residents and guests gathered for a commemorative service led by Minister Sheila. The service included a heartfelt address from David, a member of the local church, who shared his personal memories of VE Day.

Bhav Amlani of Macc Care said: “VE Day gives us all a chance to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the war, and to honour their legacy with gratitude. We believe that remembering and sharing these stories, especially across generations, is important in ensuring that the spirit of VE Day stays alive. We are proud to have marked this important day with a range of heart-warming events.”

These events reflect Macc Care’s ongoing commitment to providing enriching experiences for residents, while also fostering connection across communities and generations.

For more information about Macc Care and its homes, visit www.macccare.com