Strode Park Foundation is an amazing organisation that provides vital care, support services and supported living opportunities to children, young people and adults with a range of disabilities. We were very pleased to have an opportunity to visit one of the Foundation’s homes in Herne, near Canterbury. As one of its staff members described it: “it’s a very special place”.
The idea to visit the Herne site was suggested by our President, Maxine Blades, who remembered visiting the area as a child when her grandmother lived nearby. We had a delightful BBQ in the garden, blessed with wonderful weather. The casual meal and relaxed setting gave us a chance to mingle, chat with the staff, and get to know some of the residents. It was also a great way to support the home, as all proceeds from the BBQ will go towards helping the Foundation.
Strode Park Foundation aims to help individuals with a range of disabilities lead relatively independent lives. In addition to the home in Herne, the Foundation operates residences in Canterbury, Faversham, and Medway. It supports around 165 residents and clients across its homes and services, with a dedicated staff of approximately 360 who manage the residents, buildings and grounds, supported by volunteers.
On arrival we were warmly welcomed by Paul Montgomery, the current Chief Executive, and received a brief introduction to the Foundation from Karen and Frankie who handle fundraising and oversee events.
We learned that the Foundation has a rich history, having provided care since 1946. It was established under its first Chairman to create a close-knit community for young adults brought together during the Second World War. The staff were proud to announce that they will be celebrating this legacy at the Foundation’s 80th anniversary in two years.
After our meal we were divided into groups for a tour of the buildings situated on the 14-acre site. The grand main building, while impressive, is in need of some “TLC” – something the fundraising team is actively working to address. We admired several beautiful architectural features, such as a dining entrance with an ornate fireplace and a stunning glass-domed ceiling. It was clear to everyone that the building has tremendous potential to be restored to its original grandeur, though funding remains a challenge.
During the tour we were shown a craft/activity room for residents, packed with craft materials, equipment and games. “I don’t think there‘s an activity we don’t do” said our guide Amanda, who is a mental health nurse that has worked as the home’s Registered Manager since 2023. The residents engage in a variety of creative activities, ranging from diamond painting to photography. Not everything happens indoors; we learned about a fancy dress marathon where one participant even dressed up as Big Ben!
The main building also includes the kitchens and two dining rooms. We saw a “Rainbow Room” which, we have to say, needs some vibrant colours to live up to its name. We were also shown a small room that they hope to transform into a sensory room for the residents’ use.
Adjacent to the main building is a more modern, curved annex (designed by one of our members, architect Andrew Clague). This annex currently accommodates around 53 residents and includes facilities for respite care. The entire facility is wheelchair accessible, which is essential since most of the residents use electric wheelchairs.
Currently, the registered residents range in age from 26 to 87. We were surprised to learn that the eldest resident has lived there since the 1960s. Each resident enjoys a self-contained room, most of which include an en-suite bathroom.
The home’s approach is entirely person-centred, emphasizing independence and meaningful opportunities. They strive not to be seen as an “institution.” For example, residents can wake up or go to sleep at their own discretion, and are free to wander around the site with their carers. If they need to visit a doctor or a hairdresser they go out for appointments, rather than being confined to the home with services brought to them.
We learned that there are about 130 staff members at the Herne site, including kitchen and domestic staff. The staff were incredibly welcoming, creating a very positive atmosphere. One staff member, Jo, has worked there for over 30 years, which speaks to how rewarding it is to work at the home.
After the building tour, we had the opportunity to explore the grounds at our leisure. There was a small, simple area for ducks and rabbits, which are very much loved by the residents. One of the home’s residents, Violet, has an emotional support animal – a lovely well-behaved cat named Nala. Violet emphasised the importance of such animals, noting how cats can make wonderful support companions.
The grounds are extensive but fairly simple, with the necessary accessibility throughout. We noticed the remnants of what must have once been a magnificent fountain, and we came across a rather intriguing statue. To our surprise, we turned a corner and discovered a full amphitheatre, built in 1992, with tiered seating facing the stage. This amphitheatre is used for various events that help raise funds to support the home, especially during the summer months. Recent events have included the Theatre in the Park summer music programme and other fundraising activities for children and families. Upcoming events are listed here. The venue is also available for hire for private events.
The Foundation receives funding from Kent County Council and the NHS, but it also relies heavily on these events as well as donations, and benefactors. The number and nature of events is well managed: ensuring that these events do not negatively impact the residents is a key priority.
If you live in or near Herne Bay, you might have visited the Foundation’s charity shop on Bank Street, which is filled with pre-loved items donated by supporters. The Foundation also manages a Vinted and eBay account (search for @strodeparkcharity and Strode Park Foundation respectively).
The staff are deeply grateful to their volunteers and are always excited to hear from prospective ones. Volunteering opportunities range from assisting at events and working in the shop to helping with garden maintenance. Currently, they are looking for a driver to help with shop stock deliveries just a couple of times a week for no more than 30 mins each time. Corporate volunteers are welcome as well; for example, such volunteers have previously helped with clearing around the pond and painting the Green Room.
Finally, we learned that the Foundation also has a charming mascot, “Basil Bear” (who we think would make a great friend for our Sailor Ted). Basil attends events with the team and is an integral part of life at the Foundation. Keep an eye out for Basil and see what’s been happening on the Foundations social media here.
To learn more about Strode Park Foundation and its events, find out about its lottery or donate, you can visit its website here.
Picture: One of Strode Park’s residents, Violet, pictured with her emotional support cat, Nala. Picture credit: Rotary Club of Canterbury (taken with permission).
