Care Home Open Week 2026 officially got underway on Monday, 15 June, as leaders from across the social care sector gathered at Wandsworth Common, part of Avery Healthcare, for the campaign’s annual launch event.
Almost 100 guests attended the reception, which embraced this year’s World Cup-inspired theme. Residents, care professionals and visitors enjoyed a range of football-related activities alongside the traditional celebrations that have become synonymous with the start of Care Home Open Week.
The event also marked the arrival of cyclists completing the final stage of the Great British Care Cycle Relay. This year’s relay attracted record participation, covering approximately 500km and visiting 24 care homes across the country.
Welcoming guests, Care Home Open Week committee chair Mitesh Dhanak reflected on the growth of the initiative.
“Over the years, CHOW has grown from a small, largely virtual initiative during the COVID pandemic into a truly national movement,” he said. “Opening the doors of care homes and connecting them with communities across the country.”
The launch followed a series of pre-event activities, including a gathering at Hendon Hall, now a care home but famously the base for England’s 1966 World Cup-winning squad. The event brought together people connected to that historic tournament and received national exposure through coverage on BBC Breakfast.
Mitesh highlighted the challenges facing the sector while drawing parallels with football. “Providers are navigating financial pressures, workforce challenges, and rising expectations,” he said. “But just like in football, it’s the strength of the team that carries us through.”
He added: “Running a care home is no different. It takes teamwork, trust, communication and a shared purpose. From frontline carers to managers, nurses, support staff, families and partners, everyone plays a vital role.”
Thousands of care homes across the UK are taking part in Care Home Open Week, hosting events designed to strengthen links with their local communities. Activities include intergenerational football games, reminiscence sessions and community matches.
Guests also heard from Dr Luke Evans MP, Shadow Care Minister, and Avery Healthcare Chief Executive Jeremy Richardson. “Avery is incredibly proud to be hosting this event and to be kicking off Care Home Open Week here at Wandsworth Common,” Jeremy said. “The theme highlights the importance of teamwork, inclusion and bringing people together, values that are at the heart of great care every day.”
Championing Social Care chair Vishal Shah, who completed the relay route, concluded: “Care homes are not just places of care – they are vibrant community hubs. Together, let’s shine a light so bright that the whole country sees the true heart of social care.”
