D-Day veteran care home resident honoured with badge

We’re immensely proud that our resident, Geoffrey Scovell was recently honoured with a special veteran’s lapel badge marking his years of service in defence of the country. A former member of the Royal Navy, Geoffrey recently discovered he was eligible for the award and applied.

The HM Armed Forces Veterans Lapel Badge was launched in 2004 by the Minister for Veterans in order to assist the wider public in identifying Veterans. Eligibility for the enamel badge has recently been extended to include anyone who has served in HM Armed Forces in any era.

With self-deprecating humour, Geoffrey, 96, played down the significance of the badge: “I’ve got the badge, but it’s as common as dirt really! Anybody now who’s in the Forces at any time, can have one. But they have to apply for it and it’s not just dished out. I wear mine on my jacket.”

Geoffrey served during the Second World War and took part in D-Day, where his ship operated as landing boat headquarters. A fellow Great Oaks resident who also served in the Royal Navy told Geoffrey about applying for the badge.

Rachel Dryden, Chief Executive of Encore said: “We are proud of all our residents at Great Oaks care home. It’s especially rewarding to see those that have served in the HM Armed Forces to be acknowledged for their sacrifices. Geoffrey is a popular member of the community and we’re pleased for him.”

Great Oaks is a purpose-built care home supporting 80 residents, offering residential, nursing and dementia care. Situated in Kinson, Bournemouth, the home has been at the centre of the local community since opening and is now recognised as an established care home serving the residents of Bournemouth and the surrounding areas.

We understand that choosing a care home can be a difficult decision, but we are here to guide you every step of the way. The team at Great Oaks supports residents to continue to enjoy life, make new friends, continue with old hobbies and even try some new ones! You can read more about life & Wellbeing at Great Oaks here.

: For more information about Encore Care Homes and Great Oaks please call 01202 087444

or visit www.encorecarehomes.co.uk