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At Ashberry Healthcare, we believe that care homes should be more than just places for care – they should be true homes, filled with warmth, community, and personal connections. That’s why we’re proud to continue the rich legacy of Engelberg Care Home, which has been a cherished part of Wolverhampton’s community since its founding in 1966.
Engelberg has a deeply personal history, born from the love and vision of local businessman and Methodist, Mr. John Bates. He donated £50,000 to MHA in memory of his late wife, Blanche, with the request that a home be built in or near Wolverhampton. The home was named Engelberg, after the Swiss village where John and Blanche spent their honeymoon and many joyful holidays. The name, meaning Angel Mountain, was a fitting tribute to a place that held so much meaning for them.
When Engelberg opened its doors, John Bates made his vision clear:
“This is a home for old people - a perfect home - a home that is exactly the same as a home means to you and me – a place of joy and a place of hope and happiness.” - John Bates
This year, on the 60th anniversary, this vision is still at the heart of what Engelberg represents.
Since taking over ownership of Engelberg in April 2024, Ashberry Healthcare has been committed to maintaining that original homely feel, just as John Bates intended. For us, creating a home-from-home environment is about more than providing care – it’s about fostering a place where residents feel truly at ease, surrounded by comfort, familiarity, and a sense of belonging. Our approach ensures that while Engelberg offers the professional care and safety of a care home, it never loses the personal touch that makes it feel like home.
Engelberg has seen many changes over the years, including extensions and refurbishments to ensure the safety and comfort of our residents. Today, the home accommodates 34 residents and continues to provide high-quality care in a welcoming and nurturing environment.
A key part of Engelberg’s identity is its spiritual foundation. Many of our residents are Christians, and we know how important faith is to them. In recognition of this, we’ve continued to uphold the home’s religious heritage by employing a chaplain to provide spiritual support. This ensures that residents can continue to practice their faith in a meaningful and supportive environment, just as they have for decades.
Engelberg has also been a place where personal stories and histories come to life. Take, for example, one of our previous residents from 2025, 102-year-old Vera Hardy. She was one of the original residents photographed at the opening of the home, and she remains a vibrant part of our community today. [Click here to read Vera’s story]. In another touching example, we welcomed a resident in 2017 who was born in the original family home in 1919. She lived here as a child and returned to spend her final years in the care of Engelberg.
As Engelberg approaches a truly special milestone, we are proud to celebrate not just its past, but the people and values that continue to shape its future. On 21st April 2026, Engelberg will celebrate 60 years of care, community and compassion.
To mark this anniversary, we are launching our “60 for 60” Fundraising Challenge, in support of our Resident Fund. We are inviting our amazing team and supporters to take on a challenge inspired by the number 60. This could be walking 60 miles, baking 60 cupcakes, completing 60 acts of kindness, or creating a challenge of your own.
“Sixty years is something to be really proud of. But for us, it’s about the people living here now and making sure Engelberg continues to feel safe, happy and familiar for many years to come.”
– Dan Cash
Every pound raised will go directly towards enriching life at Engelberg, helping us continue to create joyful moments, meaningful experiences, and a true sense of home for our residents.
As Engelberg enters its next chapter under the Ashberry Healthcare family, our commitment remains the same as it was in 1966: to provide a place of joy, hope, and happiness for every resident. We look forward to celebrating 60 wonderful years of Engelberg and continuing this remarkable legacy for many years to come.
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