ROYAL Air Force veteran Gerry Cassidy is among those living at a recently certified “Veteran Friendly” care home in North Yorkshire.
Gerry, 91, is one of several residents at Sycamore Hall in Ripon benefitting from the enhanced care and support provided to those who served in the armed forces.
The care home has now received Veteran Friendly Framework status for its care provision, part of an armed forces charity backed scheme being rolled out across the country.
Home manager Ewelina Sosnowska said: “We are incredibly proud to have been recognised as a veteran friendly care home. This award reflects our unwavering commitment to honouring and supporting those who have served in the armed forces.
“We strive to create a welcoming environment where veterans feel valued and understood, tailoring our care to their unique needs and experiences.
“This recognition is not just an achievement, but a reminder of the vital role veterans play in our community, and we remain dedicated to ensuring they receive the respect and care they truly deserve.”
The VFF initiative was launched in 2023 with the aim of tackling loneliness and isolation and delivering improved health and wellbeing outcomes for more than 25,000 veterans living in care homes across England.
At Sycamore Hall, staff, residents, family members, charity representatives, veterans and local dignitaries all gathered to celebrate the care home receiving VFF status.