For 851 years, we have been helping people lead lives filled with purpose, independence and joy. Over time, our focus and knowledge of the effects of wellbeing has become more defined, and one thing we now know for certain is that movement is one of the most powerful tools for living well.
It’s not about running marathons or lifting heavy weights, it’s about finding ways to keep our bodies and minds active so we can remain independent, connected, and able to enjoy the things that matter most. You may have heard the term ‘health span’. This refers not to the number of years we live, but the number of years we live well, feeling strong, alert, and able to take part in the daily activities that make life meaningful.
Research shows that moving regularly, even in small ways, plays a huge role in supporting our health span. Gentle stretching in the morning, a walk to the shops, or joining a group exercise class can all help keep our bodies and minds in good working order. Movement also supports mood, sleep, and social connection, all of which are vital for a rich and fulfilling life.
At St John’s we aim to put this knowledge into action. Our Good Living Service provides a wide-ranging activities programme designed to help people over 55 in Bath and North East Somerset keep moving and stay socially engaged. Some choose calming yoga or Pilates classes to ease stiffness and strengthen posture; others enjoy the fun of Silver Swans ballet. For those who like something more creative, our Mindful Art and sewing sessions bring together the joy of making something with your hands with the pleasure of good company, while Cosy Cooks and tech groups provide the opportunity for gathering with the community and learning new skills.
We’ve seen first-hand how combining movement with community can transform the way people feel and the benefits of getting involved go well beyond the activity itself. In each class, there’s the chance to meet new people, share stories, and have fun. Friendships grow naturally, whether it’s over a paintbrush, a yoga stretch, or a session of seated dance. This sense of belonging is just as important for wellbeing as the movement itself, helping people feel connected and valued.
The best part about our activities programme? You don’t need to be a resident of St John’s to take part – just over 55 and living in Bath or the surrounding area. Many people tell us that joining a class was the start of a whole new chapter for them, and we’d love to welcome you too. Whether you fancy trying something new, want to keep active in a friendly environment, or are simply curious to see what we offer, our team is here to help you find the right fit.
If you’d like to know more, you can visit our activities page on our website. You can also give our Good Living team a call on 01225 486401 or email goodliving.enquiries@stjohnsbath.org.uk.
Imagine reaching for your coat, only for someone to quickly step in and do it for you. Or sitting in a doctor’s appointment where a well-meaning family member answers on your behalf.
These moments, though often intended as kind gestures, can quietly chip away at a person’s confidence, autonomy, and the feeling of being in control of their own life. This subtle shift is known as learned dependence – and it’s one of the most overlooked yet powerful forces shaping the way older adults experience ageing.
What is learned dependence?
Learned dependence happens when older adults begin to believe they’re less capable than they truly are. This isn’t due to illness or decline, but rather a gradual response to how others treat them. Repeated experiences of being helped without asking, being spoken down to, excluded from everyday decisions, or discouraged from doing things for themselves can all reinforce the idea that they are no longer capable.
Over time, these repeated messages can have a significant impact. Confidence begins to decline, motivation is lost, and daily life becomes increasingly passive. This isn’t because of what someone can’t do, but because of what they’ve stopped believing they can.
The psychology behind it
This phenomenon is closely related to the concept of learned helplessness. Studies have found that when people, including older adults, believe their actions no longer have an effect, they stop trying altogether.
For older adults, being continually over-assisted or underestimated can result in a negative response. When others repeatedly intervene before the person has the opportunity to try for themselves, it subtly reinforces the belief: ‘I must not be capable anymore.’
Numerous studies into the topic explain that if someone takes care of others too much, it can make the person being cared for feel like they have less control over their own life. This can cause them to become more dependent, even if they are still able to do things on their own.
What it looks like in everyday life
You might notice it when someone quickly fastens another person’s coat without giving them a chance to do it themselves. Or when a carer or family member talks for an older adult without first checking if they want or need help. Even something as simple as offering mobility aids without asking what someone actually needs can send the message that they’re not capable anymore.
These actions usually come from a good place – people want to be helpful – but they denote assumptions that because someone is older, they can’t do certain things. Ageist ideas like this reinforce those behaviours and end up taking away people’s independence and confidence slowly over time.
How do we challenge it?
Learned dependence isn’t set in stone – small, thoughtful changes can make a real difference. It starts with paying attention to how we interact with the people around us. Are we offering support, or assuming it’s needed? Are we stepping in too quickly, or giving space for someone to try first?
One of the simplest and most effective things we can do is ask. Asking before helping shows respect and gives people the chance to decide for themselves.
At St John’s, our Good Living team champions independent living, helping people stay active, confident, and in control of their own lives. Independence doesn’t mean doing everything alone – it’s about having the freedom to make choices, try new things, and live life on your terms. The team is always available if support is needed, but our focus is on enabling people to do things for themselves whenever possible.
We offer a wide range of activities, from ballet and creative workshops to coffee mornings and social events designed to foster connection, build skills, and strengthen the St John’s community. People always know there’s someone on hand if they want guidance, accompaniment, or a friendly face, making it easier to try new things, meet others, and stay engaged.
By creating environments where older adults can participate, contribute, and make their own decisions, we not only reinforce independence but also build a strong, supportive community where people can thrive. Supporting independence doesn’t require big changes, just a shift in mindset. With awareness and respect, we can ensure older adults stay active, involved, and in charge of their own lives in ways that are meaningful to them.
We’re delighted to introduce five new trustees to St John’s Foundation: Juliet Crisp, Alun Branigan, John Bearman, and Helen Mee.
Juliet Crisp joins us with a strong focus on people and culture, offering valuable insight into how we support, engage, and develop our teams.
Alun Branigan and John Bearman bring their financial expertise to our Investment Committee, helping us distribute our resources wisely and sustainably.
Helen Mee adds extensive experience in supporting older adults, strengthening our approach to later-life care.
Each brings with them not only a wealth of knowledge and experience, but also a deep commitment to our mission of changing lives for good. Trustees play a vital role in shaping the strategic direction of St John’s, ensuring we remain focused, responsible, and ready to serve our community, today and as we move into the future.
We recently asked each of them what inspired them to become part of St John’s, and what excites them about their new role. Their reflections reveal a shared passion for community, care, and ensuring St John’s continues to make a lasting difference in the lives of people we support.
Juliet Crisp
“Having moved to Bath two and a half years ago, I was looking for any opportunity to use my business and trustee experience. The addition of the new role of trustee for People and Culture at St John’s Foundation gives me the opportunity to use my HR and business skills, expertise, and experience gained from working in FTSE companies, for the benefit of a local charity.
People are the heart of any organisation, and I am passionate about ensuring the staff at St John’s Foundation have a great experience working at a charity which has a clear purpose and mission to help those most in need in Bath and North Somerset.”
Alun Branigan
“Since coming to Bath, I have been struck by two things. The first is the strong sense of a friendly, caring, and supportive community, and the second is its history and heritage. These both come together in the work of St John’s.
To be part of something that has supported its community for 850 years is inspiring, and a little daunting! You feel a strong sense of responsibility to ensure that it continues to thrive and support those in need.
Like so many of us, I am personally aware of the challenges that older adults face and the need for them to be able to enjoy their later years with dignity and independence. The work that St John’s does is so important in this regard. That need is only going to grow, so it’s crucial we are there for them, and that inspires everyone at St John’s.”
John Bearman
“I was initially attracted to St Johns because of its very long history of providing help and support to older people in a time of great need.
With over 30 years of direct investment experience at a number of large financial organisations, I also felt I could help support the charity through my membership of the Investment Sub-Committee and help to continue to develop a long-term investment strategy that supports the charity aims. The ethos and aims of the charity really struck a chord with me and I felt I could contribute to the excellent work already being done by the charity.”
Helen Mee
In my working life, I am focused on providing the best the NHS can offer for older people in our communities, and this became more personal as my parents aged.
The chance to join St John’s and support the work they do- working alongside local people to ensure there is access to support that promotes wellbeing- was an opportunity for me to use my experience positively and also to build my learning in a different sector.
I am thrilled to be a part of the St John’s Foundation and to work together with the community.
Trustees are key to guiding our work, helping us plan for the future while keeping our mission and values at the heart of what we do. Welcome Juliet, Alun, John, Helen, and Bryan to St John’s; we’re looking forward to continuing to make an impact with you all.
It’s hard to believe it’s already been six months since Catharine Brown stepped into the role of CEO at St John’s Foundation. After having served as Interim CEO since July 2024, she smoothly transitioned into the role of permanent CEO earlier this year and has continued to bring fresh energy and a real passion for helping St John’s grow.
In that short time, there’s been plenty to learn, celebrate and reflect on, both within the organisation and across the wider community we serve. We sat down with Catharine to find out more about the first half of her year with St John’s: the moments that have inspired her, the challenges that have shaped our direction and the opportunities she sees on the horizon.
What’s one piece of feedback that stuck with you?
One moment that has really stayed with me was hearing one of our residents speak in a short film about moving into one of our almshouses. She shared how wonderful it was to live in the building, and how full of love St John’s is. You could just feel how much it meant to her to live here; it really touched me and highlighted how special our community is.
Most of my job involves high-level planning and strategy, so I don’t always get the chance to spend as much time with residents as I’d like. But moments like that are so grounding. I remember attending a coffee morning at Combe Park early on in my role, and a new resident told me: ‘I feel so lovely, safe and warm here’. It made me think, this is why all the meetings and planning are worth it, it’s a huge privilege to spend time with the people we serve.
What’s been the most uplifting moment so far?
Our annual Founders Day celebration in June really stood out for me. It was the first time I really saw our trustees, staff and residents all together, smiling, relaxed, and enjoying the day. There was such a lovely atmosphere – it felt like a true celebration of everything St John’s is about.
What are you most excited about in the next six months?
I’m really looking forward to helping shape the direction of St John’s next chapter – building on all the incredible work that has come before – while making sure we’re ready for what lies ahead. We’ve been around for 851 years, and I want to make sure we’ll still here in another eight centuries, with a clear focus on what really matters.
What opportunity do you think St John’s is uniquely placed to seize?
For me, it’s all about honouring our roots. Our primary purpose is housing for older people, and both in the UK and across our region, we’re experiencing an acute housing crisis. There are so many people in need, and currently only around 10% of those on waiting lists for social housing get housed.
What makes almshouses like ours so special is that we don’t just offer housing, we offer community. In this next phase of our journey, I think there’s a real opportunity to double down on this knowledge, to focus more deeply on what we do best and what our community needs most.
What’s one challenge that’s taught us the most?
While long-term vision is important, I think the past few years have shown us how quickly things change. From COVID to new technologies, the world is moving fast, and we have to be ready to adapt.
I think the key learning has been to stay agile and open to change. As an organisation with over eight hundred years of history, we want to ensure we continue our legacy of supporting those who need it most, but we can’t do that by standing still. Technology advances, and the needs of society are evolving constantly – it’s so important that we keep pace.
One word for the team? The mission? The future?
Team: Supportive.
What really impressed me about our team was seeing them deal collaboratively with a power outage we had at one of our almshouses back in June. The whole team was working together, making cups of tea and supporting each other and our residents. That sense of community and calm under pressure is something special.
Mission: Critical.
Between the housing crisis and an ageing population, the work we’re doing at St John’s has never been more important.
Future: Exciting.
We’ve got so many possibilities ahead and a real chance to shape the next era of St John’s. It really is such an exciting time for us!
Catharine’s reflections offer a personal glimpse into life at St John’s, from heartwarming feedback to moments that truly capture the heart of our mission. Her leadership balances big-picture thinking with a genuine respect for the lived experiences of the people we serve.
As we look ahead, we do so with renewed purpose, a strong sense of direction and a deep commitment to the community at the heart of everything we do. We can’t wait to see what Catharine’s next six months will bring.
In a world where ageism often manifests as negative stereotypes towards older individuals, it’s refreshing to see how the residents at St John’s defy these preconceptions and continue to live life to the fullest. Ageism can lead to feelings of isolation and loneliness, as well as to physical constraints imposed by societal and personal attitudes. However, our residents continue to show us the importance of embracing life with joy and enthusiasm, proving that age is just a number.
Residents like Eileen embody the spirit of community engagement, participating in activities such as Pilates and Boules. She emphasises the pleasure and importance of companionship, and the motivation that comes from engaging in activities that bring happiness.
Age-related challenges can slow individuals down, but Eileen believes it’s crucial to remember that ageing doesn’t mean you have to stop being active. “Boules is particularly good for older adults because it focuses on skill rather than speed,” she explains. She is also involved in her community, representing St John’s at Bath’s Resident Association. She actively helps others, particularly in areas like traffic management and planning permissions, ensuring that the concerns of her locality are heard.
Chris highlights that everyone ages differently, and whilst our outward appearance can shape perceptions, what one person experiences may not hold true for another. She acknowledges that ageing brings some physical limitations, but she believes adaptation is key.
Chris’ love for the natural world shines through in her gardening at Roots allotments where she finds great satisfaction in caring for plants, watching them grow and sharing the surplus with fellow residents. “It’s like a little experiment,” she says, describing the dynamic nature of gardening. She’s enjoyed a fulfilling life, especially during her 15 years in Botswana, a place she recently visited on safari. Now, living at Chapel Court, she finds joy in many St John’s based activities, as well as those classes through the University of the Third Age, and feels fortunate to live in such a vibrant community.
Maureen has a refreshing perspective on ageing, believing that how you treat others shapes their treatment of you. “I’ve always found you get a lot more out of people if you’re nice,” she shares. For Maureen, it’s who you are and the kindness that you offer that defines you, not your age.
She has been taking Ballet through St John’s activities programme for the last seven years, as well as trying her hand at Yoga. Her hobbies have adapted over time, and she has expanded her skills and learned to play the ukulele. She and her friends visit Belfast for ukulele festivals, where they enjoy playing alongside other groups with a pint of lager or two! Maureen encourages others to try new things, stating, “If I can do it, anyone can!”
Geraldine, with her youthful outlook, challenges traditional ideas of ageing. She refuses to conform to stereotypes, continuing to express her artistic side and actively engaging in activities she loves. “Age is just a number,” she emphasises. She has written and self-published her own crime novel and has taken a course in Forensic Psychology to further her understanding in the subject. Her commitment to writing, interior design, and maintaining an active social life reminds us how embracing our lifelong interests can challenge negative societal beliefs that life stops when you reach a certain age.
At 75, Bryan doesn’t see himself as old- though he jokes about wanting some grey hair and a white moustache and beard.
Having always been active, Bryan enjoys cycling in both the UK and in Spain, where he explores the countryside and canals, sometimes riding hundreds of miles. Cycling is a key part of Bryan’s identity, and despite facing health issues, he remains determined to pursue the activities he loves. For him, cycling serves as a great way to meet fellow enthusiasts and enjoy companionship, and provides the opportunity to enjoy a pint of Guinness after a long journey!
He has also found joy in working at the allotments, appreciating the social aspect of chatting with others while engaging in manual labour. Bryan prefers focusing on friendships rather than ailments, acknowledging that while isolation can be challenging, it’s possible to find joy and support in community connections.
Together, these stories reflect a powerful message: while ageism creates barriers and challenges, it is possible to thrive in later life through companionship, creativity, and a positive mindset. Understanding ageism and its impact on well-being is essential for creating a supportive community. At St John’s, we celebrate every resident’s unique contribution and recognise that life doesn’t slow down with age—it can actually become even more rewarding.
Ageism is a widespread issue in society, creating barriers between generations. It forms the stereotype that specific experiences are ‘out of bounds’ because people have reached a certain age. The effects of ageism can be damaging, leading to feelings of loneliness and isolation among older adults, as well as playing a role in the development of physical and emotional challenges.
Conversations can help challenge these negative stereotypes while fostering connection across age groups, reminding us that age is just a number when you embrace life to its fullest. Facilitating intergenerational chats opens up meaningful opportunities for people of all ages to come together and learn from one another. It is often forgotten that older adults hold a wealth of wisdom, knowledge, and experience gained from living full lives, and their invaluable insights remind us of their contributions to society. Whether it is understanding the use of correct terminology or providing a space where people of all ages feel accepted, by encouraging dialogues between generations, we allow each other to reflect on the past and learn things for the future.
The Ageing Well Network consists of representatives from voluntary organisations, charities, and community groups, and plays a crucial role in promoting conversations with older adults. The network holds regular meetings to bring together older adults from across Bath and North East Somerset to shape the future of ageing well in our area. The network has also revived the Older People’s Voices Forum, which, guided by the voices of older adults in our community, aims to provide a place where older adults can share their opinions and suggestions to help create an age friendly community in BaNES.
Open conversations can also provide opportunities for older adults to become more comfortable with the modern world. The increasing pace of life can leave people of all ages feeling lost and disconnected in a society dominated by new advances and changing technology. By encouraging intergenerational interactions, we can bridge this gap and benefit all involved.
Supporting older adults with the tools and resources they need in the modern world, allows us to provide a range of skills that support and empower them to embrace their age, rather than feel limited by it. As part of St John’s support, our Good Living team provide a Tech Advisor group, where residents can go for help with their phones, iPads and computers, as well as chat with members of staff who have more experience in using digital devices. Whether it’s demonstrating how to use new devices, accessing online resources, managing their finances, or understanding new or updated systems, these connections help older adults to embrace technology without feeling overwhelmed and ‘left behind’.
Through these conversations, we can also change the narrative around later life. Research shows that 1 in 3 people think being older is characterised by frailty, vulnerability and dependency, when in reality, older adults play a vital role in our workplaces, communities, and society, offering of experience, knowledge, and diverse perspectives across a range of topics.
It is important that we challenge the common, internalised perceptions of ageing that many people hold – ideas like being ‘past it’ or having ‘senior moments’. By sharing stories that highlight the accomplishments, resilience, and vibrant lives of older individuals, we can reinforce that age does not define capability or worth and help create a society where we view ageing not as a decline, but as another chapter filled with potential and opportunity.
This International Women’s Day, we sat down with our CEO, Catharine Brown to find out how she uses her leadership to empower other women.
“True leadership is about more than just forging ahead – it’s about bringing others with you on the journey. Supporting women in their careers is more than setting an example; it’s about helping them find their voice, build confidence, and take their rightful place at the table.
I do this in different ways – through formal mentoring, informal advice, and by creating opportunities for talent to grow. I currently mentor a charity chief executive in the armed forces sector – an environment very different from the charities I’ve led. My role is to help her develop an authentic leadership style that works within her organisation’s culture. Unofficially, I’m always eager to support women I know with advice, whether that’s helping a senior manager balance career ambitions with family life or simply being a sounding board.
For me, mentoring isn’t just about structured sessions – it’s about passing on experience. I’ve been a leader for a long time, and I know how valuable it is to share experiences with someone who’s been through similar challenges. Feeling underconfident or out of your depth isn’t a weakness – it’s a reality for most people stepping into leadership, regardless of gender. I go out of my way to support women who struggle with confidence or imposter syndrome, helping them to push themselves forward. Leadership comes with a degree of power, and I see it as my responsibility to share that power by creating opportunities for others.
I believe in leading with honesty. I’m open about what I don’t know and where I need to learn, and I encourage my team to do the same. No one has all the answers, and real confidence comes from knowing when to ask for help. Careers are rarely a straight path. Most of us take unexpected turns, change direction, and rethink our priorities. It’s never too late to reinvent yourself. I never imagined I’d be in this role, but by staying open to opportunities, I’ve been able to grow in ways I never expected.
Empowering others isn’t about grand gestures – it’s about creating an environment where people feel supported, valued, and able to take on new challenges with confidence. That’s the kind of leadership I believe in.”
The number of children being identified has having complex special educational needs (SEN) or significant mental health concerns across Bath and North East Somerset is increasing year on year. A particularly sharp increase has been seen since the beginning of the Covid-19 pandemic. Of children referred for Early Years special educational needs (SEN) funding, 37% are primarily referred due to social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) needs.
To help tackle this growing issue, St John’s launched in partnership with Brighter Futures a new Early Nurture Service supporting children in nursery and pre-school settings.
The service provides a greater depth of early-intervention support for children’s SEMH than is currently available. By introducing the Early Nurture Service, the aim is to build capacity within schools and nurseries, addressing growing pressure on educational settings.
The project prioritised six settings across BaNES in areas of high deprivation and was delivered in the 22/23 academic years. It will continue through the 23/24 academic years, with new settings being taken on in September 2025 following a successful pilot.
The service provides the means for earlier identification and better support for vulnerable children, more accurate SEMH assessments and continued support for children transitioning into primary school.
Head of Delivery and Impact Sam Gillett shares his thoughts:
‘Nurseries, pre-schools, and schools are extremely stretched, with many reporting more complex mental health needs of young children. This programme aims to increase the support available for settings to meet these needs and to increase their skills and ability to provide the most appropriate support. Brighter Futures have a proven track record in this area, and we are excited to increase their capacity to do more’.
Ed Harker, Brighter Futures comments further:
‘We are thrilled to work again alongside St John’s and extend our existing services into the Early Years sector. Early identification of complex mental health needs, and the subsequent provision of support for both children and staff means that children have a much better chance of transitioning well into school and going on to succeed in their first steps in formal education. The Early Nurture Service dovetails with work already in place in school settings supported by the St Johns Foundation, to provide a streamlined educational support package for high need, vulnerable children’.
At St John’s Foundation, our ambition is to significantly reduce the key stage 2 educational attainment gap across BaNES by 2029. We plan on achieving this through a variety of supportive measures designed specifically for our Best Start in Life initiative. When addressing behavioural and emotional needs, the fund relies on strong partnership with our delivery partners to ensure the correct implementation of our strategies.
We are delighted to announce the appointment of our new Chair of Trustees, Sandy Forbes. Sandy is a distinguished banking and corporate lawyer with a proven track record in senior leadership positions.
We look forward to Sandy bringing a fresh perspective that will help guide St John’s into the future and through the second half of our current strategy which, alongside almshouse provision and supporting children and families, has a key focus on narrowing the academic attainment gap at the end of Key Stage 2. Through our ‘Best Start in Life’ initiative, we work closely with local primary schools, early years settings, and partners to provide targeted support that ensures every child under 12 has the opportunity to grow up healthy, happy, and well-educated.
Sandy brings an impressive track record, including 18 years as a partner at the national law firm Burges Salmon LLP. Over the past decade, she has held senior leadership roles as Group General Counsel and Company Secretary at National Express Group plc (now Mobico Group PLC) and Rotork plc. Sandy currently serves as a Board Director at Bath’s Holburne Museum and previously dedicated eight years as a Governor at the University of the West of England, where she also served as Deputy Chair of Governors. Having lived in Bath for over 25 years, Sandy has developed a profound understanding of the challenges facing our communities and the inequalities that persist across the region.
Sandy Forbes says: “I feel privileged to become Chair of a charity with such a long and rich history, yet one that remains firmly focused on supporting its community both now and into the future. As we celebrate our 850th anniversary, we aim to build on the successes of the past five years and expand our vital support to all of St John’s beneficiaries across the region. I look forward to playing my part in this next stage of the journey and contributing to its continued success.”
Catharine Brown, Interim CEO at St John’s Foundation, says: “We are delighted to welcome Sandra as the charity’s new Chair of Trustees. She brings not only a wealth of professional experience but also a forward-thinking perspective. This will be invaluable to the charity as we push forward with our important work to support all our beneficiaries, whilst also nurturing the people, partners and culture at St John’s.”
The year marked a significant milestone for St John’s Foundation as we celebrated our 850th anniversary. As we come to the end of our incredible year, we wanted to reflect on this momentous occasion and some of the fantastic ways in which we marked it.
Our journey began in 1174, when Bishop Fitzjocelyn established St John’s to offer support to those facing poverty and chronic conditions. Over the centuries, our mission of helping the most vulnerable in our community has remained unwavering. However, despite our long history, the challenges of inequality and hardship persist, making our work as vital today as it was 850 years ago. Our anniversary has given us an opportunity to not only reflect on our past but to also celebrate our accomplishments and reaffirm our on-going commitment to building a fairer and more inclusive society.
Service of Celebration
On the 1st February, we held a Service of Celebration and were delighted to welcome Her Majesty The Queen to the city. The service was held in Bath Abbey, a fitting venue to honour our centuries-long legacy. Attendees included our beneficiaries, supporters, community members, all of the St John’s team, and our partners. Her Majesty’s attendance at the event made the occasion even more special, with children from local schools and members of the public lining the streets as Her Majesty approached the Abbey, after having enjoyed tea and cake with our almshouse residents.
With heart-warming performances from local children we support through our Best Start in Life Initiative, it was a wonderful opportunity to commemorate our legacy, bring together people from our community, and set the tone for a wonderful year of celebrations ahead.
Founders Day
In June, we proudly celebrated our 850th Founders Day, bringing together residents, trustees, and staff for a wonderful afternoon of entertainment, tea and fun. The day was filled with performances from our residents, and delicious catering provided by The Francis Hotel. The event is always a joyous occasion, but our 2024 celebration was particularly special. It allowed us to not only reflect on our history but also celebrate the vibrant community we have built over the years. We’re honoured to be a part of such a special occasion, where everyone could come together, share stories, and take time to reflect on what makes St John’s such a special place.
Historical Mice
In celebration of the anniversary, our almshouse resident, Joan Wilkinson, knitted 25 mice based on historical figures. The mice took 5 months to make, and feature notable figures throughout the 850 years of St John’s history, including the charity’s founder, Bishop Fitzjocelyn, Queen Victoria, and His Majesty King Charles and Her Majesty Queen Camilla. We were also pleased to offer Joan the opportunity to meet Her Majesty Queen Camilla, our charity Patron, over tea and cake before the Service of Celebration in February.
It’s truly an honour to learn about the hobbies of our residents, as well as the celebrate amazing talents of the people we support within the community. We look forward to sharing more of the incredible lives our residents live in the new year.
The Day the Alien Came
Another key highlight for us this celebration year was the creation of a children’s book, The Day the Alien Came. Alongside Bath-based children’s author Stewart Foster and illustrator Andrew Prescott, we worked with 192 pupils from seven local primary schools that we support in BaNES to create the one-of-a-kind book
The Day the Alien Came is a fun and heartwarming story that follows Jai, an alien whose spaceship crash lands in Bath. Emerging from the wreckage, Jai is greeted by local children who take him on an extraordinary adventure, discovering the wonders of Earth and the magic of friendship.
Catharine Brown, Interim CEO of St John’s, expressed how much this project means to us:
We are delighted to celebrate our 850th anniversary and mark this occasion by creating something that positively impacts our community and leaves a legacy for the future. Every child contributed something unique, turning this story into a whirlwind of imagination. We’re so proud to share their work with the world.”
The project was supported by generous sponsors including Almeda Facilities, The Curated Property Company, Evelyn Partners, and Thrings Solicitors, YTL Utilities UK, Cazenove Capital, Buro Happold, Carter Jonas and F&S Building Contractors. The book will also be archived in the British Library, celebrating the young authors’ work for generations.
The Day the Alien Came can be purchased for £8.99 from our website. All profits will provide books to the libraries of the schools we work with, to help nurture a love for reading, creativity and confidence in children for many generations to come.
SouthGate
We were pleased to make our mark on the city of Bath this year by becoming SouthGate shopping centre’s 2024 charity partner. Throughout the year, we’ve enjoyed a wonderful collaboration that has brought our community together and helped to raise awareness for St John’s.
In the summer, the team transformed SouthGate into a spectacular English garden, featuring tumbling floral arches on St Lawrence Street in a branded installation at the heart of the shopping centre. This winter, we showcased a giant Christmas themed penguin with a contactless donation point to raise funds for our Best Start in Life work.
Ray of Hope
Throughout the 850th year, we were proud to see our Ray of Hope campaign showcased in various locations around the city. We wanted to highlight to the people of Bath some of the deep-rooted inequalities present across Bath and North East Somerset. This initiative focused on the challenges some of our most under-served beneficiaries face and how St John’s is committed to supporting them and working towards a brighter future.
Throughout St John’s 850th anniversary year, we have taken the opportunity to celebrate our rich history and impact on the BaNES community. However, it has also served as a stark reminder of the challenges still faced by many in society and how much work remains to be done to keep changing lives for good. We look forward to embarking the next 850 years of positive change for our community.
