SENIOR THRILL SEEKERS AT SURREY CARE HOME READY TO TAKE THE LEAP FOR CHARITY

Senior thrill seekers at Surrey care home ready to take the leap for charity. Two inspiring women from the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society will take part in a charity skydive on the 6^th of September to raise funds for the Surrey-based maritime charity.

Joan Small, a resident of the Society’s Belvedere House care home, and Liz Lord, a tenant in its sheltered housing complex, have decided to take on this challenge in support of the organisation and the community they are part of.

The skydiving challenge forms part of a broader fundraising initiative at Royal Alfred, aimed at bringing the gift of music and comfort to residents. Funds raised will provide smart devices, create soothing nights for those living with dementia, and fill the home with the joy of additional live concerts.

The Society hosts a variety of fundraising events throughout the year, including initiatives such as the annual summer BBQ, staff challenges like last year’s Tough Mudder, and exciting events like the upcoming skydive, all of which help engage supporters. These efforts run alongside the continuous backing of other maritime charities and the wider maritime community, which is also crucial

Liz Lord, tenant and participant of the skydiving challenge said:

“It’s a privilege to be able to support the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, where compassion and community are at the heart of everything they do. Now, as a tenant, it’s my home, and I’ve experienced firsthand their exceptional support, especially for those living with dementia. I’m excited to take on this challenge, which holds great meaning for me. If we can raise funds for additional music therapy and wellbeing programmes, it would help bring the gift of music and comfort to others and that would be a fantastic bonus.”

David Dominy, CEO of The Royal Alfred, said:

“We are always inspired by the determination of our residents and tenants here at The Royal Alfred. Joan and Liz’s skydiving challenge is an excellent example of their adventurous nature and their zest for life. We already offer a wide array of modern facilities, events and activities to support the well-being of everyone in our care – from outdoor exercise classes and walking groups to our recently introduced sensory room and interactive tables. The efforts of Joan and Liz remind us of the incredible community spirit that exists here at Royal Alfred as we continue to support ageing seafarers, veterans and their loved ones, to receive the care they deserve irrespective of their financial means.”

Support the Skydiving Challenge 2025:
If you would like to support Joan and Liz as they take on this daring challenge, donations can be made here. Every contribution will support the wellbeing and quality of life for The Royal Alfred community.

The Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society is a registered charity, established in 1865. It provides nursing, respite, and dementia care at its modern care home, Belvedere House, to older seafarers, their loved ones, and residents from the local community with non-seafaring backgrounds.

For more information about the work of the Royal Alfred Seafarers Society, please visit the Facebook page or website.