British Army Chief Praises Royal Star & Garter After Care Home Visit

The head of the British Army has praised a charity which cares for veterans after visiting one of its Homes in High Wycombe.

General Sir Roly Walker said he felt “comfort and gratitude” knowing the Armed Forces family was in good hands following his visit and tour of Royal Star & Garter in Hughenden Avenue on Tuesday 19 August.

General Walker was met by Royal Star & Garter Chair Richard Williams, his predecessor Major General Tim Tyler, Chief Executive Andy Cole and High Wycombe Home Manager Reggie Ballos.

They discussed the charity’s model of care and plans for the future. Sir Roly was told how new services, such as Day Care and Telephone Friendship, are helping tackle loneliness and isolation within the veteran community, and about plans to assist working-aged veterans who require care and support or are living with disabilities.

During his tour, Sir Roly saw the award-winning nursing and dementia care, along with the in-house Physiotherapy and Activities rooms. He later had tea with residents and Army veterans Ken, Mick and Michael.

Afterwards he said: “While this is my first visit to a Royal Star & Garter Home, I was well aware of its reputation for providing outstanding care to our country’s veterans and their families. I was able to witness this firsthand, and came away from the Home with comfort and gratitude knowing that Royal Star & Garter will provide the very best care to our Armed Forces community, now and in the future. It’s truly inspirational.”

Royal Star & Garter Chairman Richard Williams said:
“It was a privilege to welcome Sir Roly into our High Wycombe Home and introduce him to our wonderful residents and show him the amazing work of our staff, who provide them the most brilliant, loving care. We’re delighted he enjoyed his visit and look forward to seeing him again in the future.”