Our history
Our roots in Ferring, West Sussex, date back to 1976 when Abbeyfield opened a pioneering home on Beehive Lane. The visionary couple behind this home were Ferring’s very own Joan Cornwell and her husband Bill. Now under the brand of Beehive Care, like our founders, we are still committed to creating a thriving and supportive community for our members, believing that the key to happiness in later life lies in being part of a caring and nurturing community.
In 1982 Following the success of our initial venture, we expanded our efforts in Ferring by opening Old School House, a supported living home, on the site of Ferring’s old primary school. This new facility was designed to provide a welcoming and secure environment for those who need additional support while maintaining their independence. The transformation of the old school into a home signifies our dedication to preserving the essence of our community’s history while adapting to meet contemporary needs. (An interesting fact: the cross on Old School House is made from the old roof tiles from the old school).
In 2000 Abbeyfield launched Support at Home, building on our commitment to support the vulnerable in our community, an initiative aimed at assisting those in Ferring who needed help while living independently. This program ensured that vulnerable individuals received the care and support they needed within the comfort of their own homes.
In 2013, our current CEO, while working for another organisation, collaborated with a dedicated team to launch Dementia Friendly Worthing. This initiative focused on making Worthing a more inclusive and supportive environment for those living with dementia and their families.
In 2017 when our now CEO joined Abbeyfield, she brought her knowledge and experience of building dementia services to the offering the Abbeyfield had…
In 2023, we rebranded as Beehive Care, reflecting our evolving mission and expanded services. As part of this transformation, we integrated the Dementia Hub, formerly known as Dementia Friendly Worthing, into our organisation. This adoption underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive care and support for those affected by dementia within our community.
Our mission
To ensure there is no reason for anyone in our community to grow old alone.
Vision
A world where older people live full, meaningful lives and are valued for their contribution to society.
Values
Heartfelt Service: Providing genuine and compassionate care to the community, prioritising their well-being over profit.
Inclusivity: Fostering an inclusive environment where transparency and approachability are paramount, ensuring that everyone feels welcomed and valued.
Visionary Engagement: Engaging with the community in a meaningful way, listening to their needs and aspirations to deliver services that make a difference.
Empathetic Mindset: Cultivating a mindful and considerate approach, understanding the diverse needs of the community and providing tailored support and services.
Commitment to High Standards of Care
At Beehive Care, we pride ourselves on maintaining the highest standards of care for our residents. In April 2021, our Residential Care Home, supported living and Domiciliary Services were thoroughly inspected by the Care Quality Commission (CQC) and deemed ‘good’ in all areas, including safety, effectiveness, compassion, responsiveness, and leadership. This recognition is a testament to our unwavering dedication to providing exceptional care.
A Range of Services to Meet Individual Needs
We understand that everyone has unique care requirements. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to cater to the diverse needs of older people in our community. Whether it’s support at home to help maintain independence, supported living to enjoy a sense of community, or residential care for those who need a higher level of assistance, we are here to provide the care and support you need.
A Philosophy of Independence and Safety
At Beehive Care, our care philosophy centres around enabling older individuals to maintain their independence while ensuring their safety and continue to thrive in later life. We understand the importance of feeling supported and valued, which is why our dedicated team of carerstreats our customers, residents, and guests as if they were part of their own family. We involve members in decision making, engage them in community initiatives, and respect their ideas and preferences.
Thrive with Us
We believe that you can thrive with us. Our commitment to creating a nurturing and supportive environment is evident through our accolades and achievements. In 2020, we received a favourable Care Quality Commission Report, and a five-star Environmental Health rating. Cornwell House, Old School House and our Domiciliary Care service have all been rated ‘Good’ by the CQC, underscoring our dedication to quality care provision.
Contact us now to discuss your care needs
Schedule a visit to Cornwell House, or inquire about our supported living accommodation at the Old School House. Become a part of the Beehive Care family and discover the warmth, respect, and love that define our community. Let us support you on your journey to happiness and well-being.
Our latest CQC ratings
meet our team
Jacqui Swindells – CEO
After owning my own Hairdressing business in London for 15 years I decided to change careers and moved to the South Coast. I qualified as a counsellor in 2003 and moved into working in Health and Social Care. While working for a third-sector organisation in Worthing, I gained an MA in Leadership and Management in Health and Social in 2015 from Chichester University and came to work at Beehive Care in May 2016.
Tammy Townsend – HR and Payroll Manager
After leaving school and starting my career off in travel, in 2001 I moved into the Banking sector where I remained for 14 years during which time I had my family, I decided I wanted to work in a role where I could feel fulfilled, fitted with my family and to give back. In 2015 I moved into Health and Social Care in an administrative role and volunteered within services to gain experience and knowledge, before completing my HR training and joining Beehive Care Oct 2017.
Luke Knight – Business Development Manager
I started my career in 2008 as a Communications Officer for a local charity, Guild Care. I have worked within the communications and marketing industry throughout my 20 year career, with a speciality in Dementia. Throughout my career, I have dedicated time to developing my skills and expanding my network, promoting into managerial roles for my local church and a Dementia charity, Dementia Support. My role at Beehive Care started in August 2022, as part of the Senior Management Team, where I have had not only the opportunity to further hone these skills, but develop greater depth of understanding for the care industry as a whole alongside delivering key initiatives aligned to our business plan and strategy
