Ponsandane Care Home in Penzance has made history as the first care home in Cornwall to be officially recognised under the national Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF). The milestone ensures Armed Forces veterans living at the home receive enhanced, person-centred care tailored to their unique needs.
And among those to benefit is one of the home’s most extraordinary residents, believed to be Britain’s oldest female soldier who served in the Second World War. Now in her remarkable later years, she continues to share vivid, captivating stories of her wartime service, keeping history alive for staff, fellow residents and visitors alike.
The VFF aims to better support the practical, emotional and social needs of the Armed Forces community in residential care across England. By meeting eight key standards, including recording Armed Forces status in care plans, tackling loneliness, and linking with local veteran support services, Ponsandane shows its commitment to understanding and honouring military experiences.
A Proud Milestone & Meaningful Changes
The home has introduced thoughtful new practices since working toward the status: placing poppy emblems on the doors of veteran residents; veteran breakfast at the Cornish Pirates rugby club and building stronger connections with veteran support charities. The framework has already helped form new friendships and reduce isolation among those who have served.
“We are incredibly proud to be Cornwall’s first VFF-approved care home,” said the Ponsandane team. “This isn’t just an award; it’s a promise. We’ve learned so much already.”
Recognition From The Scheme
Kathryn Glass, VFF Project Lead at Royal Star & Garter, said: “We’re delighted that Ponsandane Care Home has achieved VFF status. This shows wonderful commitment to continuous improvement in how they care for veteran residents and their partners. It will benefit residents now and in the future, and staff too, through better training and deeper understanding of military experiences.”
The VFF is delivered in partnership by Royal Star & Garter, the Royal British Legion, and the NHS Veterans’ Covenant Healthcare Alliance, funded by the Armed Forces Covenant Fund Trust.
Ponsandane Care Home is part of the Swallowcourt Group, which operates six beautiful care homes across Cornwall.
We offer a range of specialist services across our locations:
Three homes providing residential, nursing and dementia care for older people
Three specialist homes supporting people with learning disabilities
Every one of our homes is dedicated to delivering compassionate, person-centred care tailored to each individual’s needs.
