Abbeyfield team members represent our charity at special royal celebration for frontline workers
On Wednesday 6 May, five of our representatives from Abbeyfield were invited to a special Garden Party at Buckingham Palace to celebrate the commitment of frontline workers whose contributions often go unseen. Abbeyfield, a charity supporting older people through a network of over 200 care homes, sheltered housing schemes and independent living complexes across the UK, was one of a select group of organisations invited, all of which share the patronage of His Majesty King Charles III.
The King has been a patron of Abbeyfield since 1979 and has long supported the work of the organisation and our founder, Richard Carr-Gomm OBE. This year, we are celebrating our 70th anniversary, continuing to champion our founder's values of care, compassion and community.
Our royal garden party guests
Our attendees travelled from across the country to share the occasion
- Dhanif Paramban Sheltered Housing Manager at Riverhill sheltered housing scheme in Corbridge, Northumberland
- Lesley Costello Care Home Manager at Phil Mead House in Coventry
- Fiona Downs Registered Manager at Grove House care home in Ilkley
- Carole Rodwell Chair of the Abbeyfield Yarmouth Society
- Wendy Stallwood Registered Manager of Bradbury House care home in Beaconsfield
Sharing handshakes and tea with the King
The afternoon provided some unforgettable memories, including a few up-close moments with royalty.
Carole Rodwell recalled her experience meeting the King directly.
“It was so very 'English tea party' on a grand scale.
“The King entered our lavish tea tent with a wave and said, ‘Everybody, excuse me while I get a cup of tea.’ With a cup of tea in hand, he then came over in my direction, reached out his hand and said, ‘Welcome, nice to meet you.’ I dipped a curtsy and shook hands with the King; he was so natural. He spotted the Abbeyfield badge on my lapel, and said ‘Oh, a wonderful organisation. I have been with them for 45 years, as you know, as the Patron. They do some amazing work.’
“It was a day certainly to be remembered.”
Dhanif Paramban also shared his perspective on the afternoon.
“We had the most wonderful and unforgettable. It was such a special and emotional experience, and we truly enjoyed every single moment.
“We were incredibly honoured to be in the Royal Tea Tent with Their Majesties The King and Queen, and members of the Royal Family. It felt like a once-in-a-lifetime moment that we will always treasure.
“We were also very fortunate to have the chance to shake His Majesty’s hand and enjoy a lovely four-minute conversation.
“It was also a pleasure to meet others from Abbeyfield and share this amazing occasion together.”
While the palace garden party was a major highlight, our 70th milestone is a year-long celebration. Abbeyfield will continue to commemorate its 70th anniversary with special events throughout the year at its services around the country.
Residents, staff, volunteers and friends from the local area will be invited to celebrate the organisation’s history, achievements and community spirit, in the warm and family-style atmosphere that characterises each Abbeyfield house and home.
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