9 September 2022

Dear Residents, Tenants, and Colleagues

Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II

I know that everyone will be deeply saddened by the passing of Her Majesty The Queen. As the country’s monarch for over 70 years and the Sovereign Head of The Venerable Order of the Hospital of Saint John of Jerusalem, she holds a very special place in the heart of everyone living or working at the Trust.

On a more practical level, most of us walk past an image of her every time we come in or out of our homes.

Queen Elizabeth’s kindness and leadership was evident to all. Many of our residents will remember her direction and comfort during times of national crisis throughout the 20th century and all were cheered by her messages of support during the pandemic. Queen Elizabeth’s steadfast faith, and her commitment to her role and dedication to her people endeared her to the nation.

OSJCT care homes, schemes, and offices will follow national protocols for a period of mourning. Our Admiral Nurses are available to support residents and employees during this time of grieving. Each home will make arrangements, based on the wishes of residents, to remember Queen Elizabeth in a fitting way.

Finally, when helping our nation come to terms with one of the many sad world events that took place during her reign, she helped us to understand and manage our sadness by reminding us that ‘grief is the price we pay for love’.

Yours faithfully

Dan Hayes OBE

Chief Executive Officer