Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Patron of the charity Friends of the Elderly, visited Reading to officially open Friends Place, a new state-of-the-art residential care home in Calcot.

On arrival, The Princess Royal was received by Richard Anderson DL, representing the Lord-Lieutenant of the Royal County of Berkshire. Her Royal Highness was then welcomed by Rachel Hill, Chief Executive of Friends of the Elderly, and Mark Wilson, Chief Operating Officer, who escorted her on a tour of the home.

During the visit, The Princess Royal met residents and staff and viewed the new facilities, including a cinema room, beauty salon, garden room and sky bar, all designed to enhance the wellbeing and enjoyment of those who live there.

Offering residential, dementia and respite care as well as a day-care service, Friends Place reflects the charity’s long-standing commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate support for older people. The home has been thoughtfully designed to create a warm and welcoming atmosphere where residents feel valued, secure and supported.

The Princess Royal succeeds her late mother, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, as Patron of Friends of the Elderly, continuing more than six decades of Royal support for the charity’s work. Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra continues as President.

Friends Place not only brings high-quality care but also creates 30 new jobs for the local community. Every detail has been designed with residents’ wellbeing in mind, providing a place where older people can live with comfort, dignity and connection.

Founded in 1905, Friends of the Elderly operates care homes and day services across the country, supporting older people to live well in later life. Its 120th anniversary year marks a celebration of compassionate care, community and continuity.