Brendoncare

Brendoncare

Brendoncare (The Brendoncare Foundation) is a prominent social care charity in the United Kingdom. The organisation focuses on transforming the culture of ageing by providing age-friendly living environments and community services that empower older people to live well, with a strong emphasis on dignity, respect, and social connection.

Who We Are

Brendoncare operates as a regional care and community network, functioning across the South of England, including Hampshire, West Sussex, and Wiltshire.

Founded in 1984 by Winchester GP Sir Ronald Gibson, the organisation was built on the pioneering belief that people should not have to move if their health declines. Headquartered in Winchester, they are known for their "Total Care" model, which adapts to a person's changing needs within the same location. Their model is built on a history of philanthropy, starting with the vision of Phoebe Bacon in the 1950s.

They pride themselves on their Royal Patronage, having been supported by HM The Queen Mother and currently by HRH The Duchess of Edinburgh, which underscores their long-standing reputation in the British charitable sector.

What We Do

Residential & Nursing Care

Providing high-quality long-term accommodation with 24-hour support from skilled nursing staff for those with complex physical health needs.

Dedicated Dementia Care

Operating specialist environments like St Giles View, the first in Winchester to offer dedicated dementia care, focusing on safety and memory-friendly engagement.

Extra Care Housing & Close Care

Offering independent living apartments with the security of knowing that professional care and support are available on-site whenever needed.

Brendoncare Clubs

Managing a network of over 60 volunteer-led friendship and well-being clubs that provide social opportunities, exercise, and entertainment to reduce isolation among older people in the community.

Respite & Palliative Care

Providing short-term stays for recovery or to give family caregivers a break, as well as compassionate end-of-life care focused on comfort and dignity.

Dementia-Friendly Community Hubs

Facilitating resources like the hub at Otterbourne Hill, which includes a restaurant, café, and shared activities designed to bring residents and the local community together.

Approach & Values

Brendoncare focuses on Kindness, Empowerment, and Being Forward-Thinking.

They prioritise individual preference, ensuring that residents are treated as unique people rather than just "service users." Their approach is designed to be pioneering, continuing their founder's mission to challenge traditional institutional care by creating "homes for life" where residents feel truly valued.

A strong emphasis is placed on "Respect and Warm-heartedness," with staff trained to take the time to understand what genuinely matters to each person in their care.

Industry Role

Brendoncare plays a pivotal role in the UK charitable care sector, acting as a high-quality alternative to both state-run and private-for-profit nursing homes.

As a respected social care charity, the organisation contributes to the sector by influencing national conversations on how to improve the quality of later life. They act as a strategic advisor for local authorities, particularly in Hampshire, where they are a key partner in delivering integrated care and community support.

They offer a not-for-profit care ecosystem, making them a preferred choice for families who value a mission-driven approach where care standards and social impact are prioritised over financial dividends.