Walsall care home honours 'founding residents' in heartfelt grand opening celebration

Rowanbrook Care Home in Walsall celebrated its official opening last week welcoming local community members and stakeholders to a special event, with guest of honour Deputy Mayor Councillor Louise Harrison, leading the official ribbon-cutting ceremony.

L to R: Shelly-Ann Trotman (Deputy Manager), Lorraine Shannon (Business Development Manager), Angela Sands (Director of Operations), Deputy Mayor Cllr Louise Harrison, Bo Micu (Care Home Manager)

Throughout the afternoon, guests enjoyed guided tours of the 54-bedroom care home, a delicious buffet prepared by Rowanbrook’s in-house chef, and live music from local contemporary violinist, Debbie from BeatDrop UK.

One of the most heartwarming moments of the event was the recognition of Rowanbrook’s first resident, who was honoured with a special plaque as 'founding resident' for their role in shaping the home’s community.

Simon Anderson (55), was the very first resident to move into Rowanbrook in September 2024. Simon, who has frontotemporal dementia, has experienced a remarkable improvement in his wellbeing since moving into the home. Initially requiring significant assistance and struggling with communication, Simon is now more independent, active and engaged in daily life.

L to R: Philip Davies (Simon Anderson's stepfather), Simon Anderson (Rowanbrook resident), Susan Davies (Simon Anderson's mother)

Commenting on the event, Deputy Mayor Councillor, Louise Harrison, said: “It’s clear to see that Rowanbrook is a truly special home full of care and compassion. The success of the opening event reflects the home’s commitment to integrating into the local community and ensuring every resident receives the dignity, respect and support they deserve.”

Rowanbrook provides specialist nursing care for dementia and other complex mental and physical health conditions to adults over the age of 18, empowering them to maintain independence through meaningful engagement for as long as possible.

Rowanbrook’s Care Home Manager, Bo Micu, added: “We’re incredibly proud of how far Rowanbrook has come, and this event is a real celebration of our journey. Our founding residents have played such a key role in shaping the home, and it’s wonderful to see them involved in today’s event. We’ve built a close-knit and supportive community since opening, involving residents, families, and staff - who are committed to providing the highest levels of compassionate and quality care.”