History of Horsfall House
The history of Horsfall House is a story of community spirit, dedication and compassionate care. For the people of Minchinhampton, Horsfall House is much more than a nursing home. Instead, it is the result of years of fundraising, volunteering and local support. As a result, older people can receive the highest standards of care and wellbeing support.
The beginning
Local people first recognised the need for quality care for older people in Minchinhampton and the surrounding area in the early 1980s. In response, the charity Minchinhampton Centre for the Elderly (MCE) was established. The organisation began as a small day centre operating from the common room of a local sheltered housing scheme. At first, a qualified nurse, supported by local volunteers, provided care and activities three days a week.
The success of the day centre quickly demonstrated the value of community support for older people. As demand grew, Dr Chris Booth proposed the idea of creating a purpose-built centre that would combine day services with residential nursing care.
Building Horsfall House
An ambitious fundraising campaign soon began. Thanks to generous donations and the dedication of local residents, the vision became a reality. When it first opened, Horsfall House provided day care for up to 20 people. In addition, it offered residential nursing care for 22 people with physical health needs. It also provided care for eight people living with severe memory difficulties.
Growing to meet local needs
As demand for services increased, Horsfall House expanded through a number of building extensions. Today, the home provides 44 nursing beds. These includes: 22 beds in the Gatcombe Unit for residents requiring nursing care for physical health conditions; 22 beds in the Cotswold Unit for people living with dementia and complex memory-related conditions.
In addition to residential care, Horsfall House offers a busy day centre with social and physical activities six days a week. The organisation also provides high-quality home care services, helping people remain independent in their own homes. These services include local support and a Meals on Wheels service.
Becoming Horsfall House CIO
In 2024, Horsfall House reached an important milestone. MCE and its operating subsidiary, MCEL, merged to form a single Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO). As a result, the charity officially became Horsfall House CIO, bringing all services together under one organisation. A dedicated volunteer Board of Trustees now oversees the charity, while the Nursing Services Director and Chief Executive Officer lead its day-to-day operations. Together with their professional team, they continue to deliver outstanding care and support to the local community.
Community support continues
Fundraising continues to play a vital role in supporting Horsfall House. Throughout the year, our Fundraising and Engagement Officer works with a dedicated team of volunteer Community Fundraisers. Together, they organise events and activities across the local area. You can find out more about upcoming fundraising events on our events page. Most importantly, the ongoing generosity of people in Minchinhampton and the surrounding communities helps make our work possible. As a result, Horsfall House can continue providing high-quality care and support to local people when they need it most.
Royal Patronage
Horsfall House is also honoured to have HRH The Princess Royal as its patron. Since the home first opened in 1994, she has supported the organisation in many ways, and her continued patronage is greatly appreciated.