Trust Care’s Holly Tree Lodge Care Home, in Barnsley, is proud to announce that it has officially achieved Veteran Friendly Framework (VFF) Accreditation. A landmark achievement that recognises its commitment to delivering tailored care and support for residents who have served in the UK Armed Forces.
The Veteran Friendly Framework is a national initiative designed to help care providers better meet the social, emotional, and physical needs of the estimated 26,500 veterans living in care homes across England. Despite there being over 15,000 care homes in the UK, research by Northumbria and Anglia Ruskin Universities found that there are only around 20 currently designated military care homes, leaving many veterans facing loneliness, isolation, trauma, and a lack of camaraderie in later life.
“At Holly Tree Lodge, we are committed to providing the highest level of care and support for all our residents, including those who have served in the Armed Forces,” said Kasia Szatowska Home Manager at Holly Tree Lodge. “Achieving the Veteran Friendly Framework accreditation and pledging to the Armed Forces Covenant allows us to honour their service and ensure that veterans receive the respect, understanding, and support they truly deserve.”
As part of this new status, Holly Tree Lodge has also pledged to uphold the Armed Forces Covenant, a promise by the nation to ensure that those who serve or have served in the Armed Forces, and their families, are treated with fairness and respect in the communities they live in.
Holly Tree Lodge currently provides care for two residents who have served in the Armed Forces offers a programme of veteran-focused activities. These include Remembrance Day services, opportunities to share personal stories, social events with fellow veterans, and visits from external veteran support organisations. Military-themed events also form part of the home’s calendar, helping to promote a sense of identity and shared experience.
One resident veteran, John Paxman, served as a trooper in the Duke of Wellington Regiment. He began his national service in 1955, serving for two years, and then stayed on for another year. During his service, John was stationed in Cyprus, Malta, Africa, and Ireland. These places gave him unforgettable experiences, and he valued the time he spent with his fellow soldiers. Sadly, his time in the army was cut short when he contracted malaria, which forced him to leave.
When discussing his experiences, John said: “Serving in the army was one of the best things that ever happened to me. If I hadn’t gotten malaria, I would have continued serving.”
Although he had to leave the army earlier than he wanted, John remained proud of his service and always remembers it as a special part of his life.
As part of its work under the Veteran Friendly Framework, Holly Tree Lodge has also appointed a Veterans’ Champion, a former soldier who served in the Royal Dragoon Guards and represented England overseas. His experience provides valuable insight as the home develops its approach to veteran care, supporting both residents and staff in creating a service that is informed, respectful, and responsive to the needs of those who have served.
“We are proud to have built a strong connection with our Veterans’ Champion, who plays a vital role in guiding and supporting both residents and staff,” said Kasia. “His involvement helps ensure that our approach is informed by genuine experience and reflects a clear understanding of military life.”
