Maritime charity, the Royal Alfred Seafarers’ Society, celebrated its 159th Annual General Meeting at Trinity House in London this month, unveiling an exciting new brand refresh as it looks toward the future.
The announcement follows the completion of a major refurbishment of Belvedere House, the Society’s specialist maritime nursing care home in Surrey. The modernisation programme completed the upgrade of all 68 bedrooms and communal areas in late 2023, a significant milestone in the Society’s continued efforts to make life even more comfortable and enjoyable for residents and tenants.
As part of the AGM updates, the Society, which has been supporting former seafarers and their loved ones for over 160 years, also reported improved occupancy rates and strengthened financial stability for 2024, achievements that pave the way for continued stability and growth.
CEO at the Royal Alfred, Capt David Dominy MA rcds said: “Royal Alfred has always stood for quality care, community, and honouring seafaring heritage. As we plan for the future, we are embracing technology, modern practices and a new brand identity to help us reach more people, generate greater awareness, and continue evolving. Our updated logo, new impact report, and fully accessible new website signal our intent to lead with transparency, empathy and excellence – qualities rooted deeply in our past and vital to our future.”
Attended by trustees, staff, supporters, residents and tenants as well as the Mayor-elect of Banstead and Reigate, the AGM also saw the re-election of several Board Members and the presentation of lifetime membership to Mr Peter Dawes LL.B FCIS FRSA, in recognition of his outstanding service to the Society.
Grace Bilney, Strategy and Planning Manager at Definition, who led the brand refresh project, said: “We wanted to create a fresh look that speaks to Royal Alfred’s relevance today while preserving its remarkable history. This brand refresh embodies the Society’s values of care and community, positioning it to connect with new audiences, particularly families currently navigating the challenges of finding exceptional specialist care for a loved one.”
A highlight of the event was a moving personal story from tenant Liz Lord, who shared her experience of care at Belvedere House and the impact of the Society’s work: “When my husband first came to live at the Belvedere House, I had been his full-time carer for many years. From the moment we arrived, it felt like we’d become part of a family. The support here, especially for those living with dementia, is truly exceptional. Thanks to the incredible care he received, I was able to spend the last six months of his life as his just wife again. I’m so grateful still to call the Royal Alfred home as a tenant – it’s a place filled with compassion, dignity and community.”
Liz, alongside Royal Alfred resident Joan Small, is planning a charity skydive later this year to raise funds for enhanced music therapy sessions and relaxation tools, including sleep machines, supporting residents’ wellbeing, particularly those with dementia.
For more information about the work of the Royal Alfred Seafarers Society, please visit the Facebook page or website.
