Rethinking our role in society

Care homes have long been viewed as places that provide essential support for older people and those in need of specialist care. While this remains their core function, there is an urgent need to rethink their role in society. Too often, care homes are seen as isolated institutions rather than as dynamic, community-focused spaces that can benefit people beyond their residents. As the demand for care continues to grow, we are just one of the organisations demonstrating that care homes can be much more than service providers, they can be centres for social connection, sustainability, and meaningful change.

The idea of placing purpose over profit is at the heart of this shift. In a sector where financial pressures often dictate decisions, prioritising people and social impact can seem challenging. However, research and experience show that care homes that focus on long-term social value, rather than short-term financial gain, create better environments not only for residents but also for staff and the wider community. This approach leads to better care, stronger relationships, and ultimately, a more sustainable model for the future.

A rethinking of the role of care homes in society can be seen in Standish Care Village. This innovative care model moves away from the traditional, institutional approach and instead creates a vibrant, homely environment where residents are empowered to live more independently.

A key part of this rethinking involves viewing care homes as hubs for community engagement. Instead of being places where people simply move to in later life, they can become spaces where people of all ages come together.

Through partnerships with local schools, nurseries, and community organisations, children and young people are encouraged to engage with residents in meaningful ways, whether through shared activities, educational projects, or simply spending time together. These interactions have been shown to improve emotional well-being, reduce feelings of isolation among older adults, and foster a deeper understanding and appreciation between generations.

Intergenerational care benefits both sides of the relationship. For younger people, spending time with older adults helps build empathy, social skills, and confidence. It allows them to hear stories, gain wisdom, and develop respect for ageing in a way that textbooks and classrooms cannot replicate. For residents, especially those living with dementia, engaging with children and young people has been shown to boost mood, stimulate memory recall, and create moments of joy that have a lasting positive impact on their wellbeing.

By integrating care homes more deeply into the fabric of their communities, Millennium Care is demonstrating that purpose-driven care is not just an idealistic concept—it is entirely possible. Standish Care Village serves as an example of what the future of care could look like: a model where care homes are not isolated institutions but inclusive spaces that bring people together and contribute to a better society. A role Millennium embraces after becoming a B Corp in 2024.

For more information on Millennium's commitment to the community, click here.