At Headingley Hall, we commemorated Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day with various craft and writing events in the run up to 11 November.
 
Our residents assisted with making poppies, decorating stones and writing down their memories of the Second World War.
 
On Sunday 8 November and Wednesday 11 November, residents and staff joined together for a two-minute silence in the main lounge to remember those brave service men and women who have lost their lives fighting in conflict. 
 
Our residents also laid a wreath at the bottom of our flag, to honour the memory of Michael, one of our apartment owners who very recently passed away.
 
On Armistice Day, our residents were able to spend time together reminiscing over poppy cupcakes and a warm cuppa!

We heard some very moving, emotional and occasionally funny reminiscences from our residents, and we’re very proud to share some of their recollections here. 
 
“I am Len Bower and I remember school and art college and my friends joining the war effort.”
  
I am Doreen Centemore and I remember when the air raids happened, the sirens would go off which meant we had to shelter until it was all clear and then the all clear siren sounds and we know we are safe.”
  
“I am Ron Giles and I remember my brother who was 3 years older than me, becoming a PNB.”
  
“I am Joan Ffennell, and I remember in 1939 my mother did not want me to be evacuated with the school, so at 16 I got an apprenticeship at Boots.  I also went to evening classes to study science.  I then went to Leeds University for 2 years and took my exams in the Pharmaceutical’s Society.  Then the war ended, and I went straight to work in a hospital, and I met my husband.”
  
“I am Shelagh Robinson, and I remember my parents sitting by their radio waiting for an important announcement.  At the age of 7 I did not understand, but my parents made it clear it was VERY important!”
  
“I am Marie Addlessee, and I remember my French mate rushing out of the staff room shouting France will be free again!!”
 
“I am Evelyn Sarvent, and I remember being evacuated with my gas mask and just a few belongings.”
 
“I am Keith Parker, and I remember one fire missing my by 4 feet.”
 
“I am Susan Down, and remember my grandad fighting in the Royal Horse Artillery.”
 
"We’d like to think that it is the little things we do every day that make Westward Care so unique."
Peter Hodkinson
Managing Director, Westward Care