THORNHILL House in Barnsley has been officially recognised as Veteran Friendly, giving former members of the Armed Forces — along with their families and the wider community — access to enhanced support, understanding and signposting from a specially trained team.
The recognition follows the care home meeting the nationally recognised standards of the Veteran Friendly Framework, an initiative designed to improve the quality of care and support for veterans living in care homes across England, while also tackling loneliness and improving health and wellbeing outcomes.
As part of the accreditation, staff at Thornhill House have completed specialist training to ensure Armed Forces service history is recognised, understood and reflected in care planning. The team is now equipped to offer informed guidance and signposting — not only for residents, but also for staff, families and members of the local community with military backgrounds.
Home manager Christian Whiteley-Mason said the aim is for Thornhill House to become a trusted Veteran Friendly hub for the local area.
He added: “This recognition is about far more than a badge. It means residents, colleagues and people in the local community who have served — or are connected to someone who has — can approach a trained, understanding team for advice, support and direction.
“We want Thornhill House to be a place where veterans feel seen, respected and understood.”
The training explored the lifelong impact of military service, including the challenges many veterans face returning to civilian life. Staff heard powerful first-hand accounts highlighting the importance of safe spaces, peer connection and access to practical support — from mental health services and housing advice to rehabilitation and community networks.