OurPurpose
Who We Are
The Charlotte Straker Project is a registered charity providing high-quality residential, nursing and respite care to older people in Corbridge and the wider Tynedale area At the heart of everything we do is a deep belief in community, compassion, and dignity - values that shape our daily care and long-term vision.
We run Charlotte Straker House, a specialist care home offering personalised support in a safe, warm and inclusive environment where everyone is treated as part of the family.
Our Mission
To provide outstanding care and support to elderly and infirm members of our community in the Tynedale area (and wider Northumberland), ensuring their needs are met through high quality accommodation, nursing, and rehabilitation in a compassionate and homely setting.
Who We Support
We support older people who need residential, nursing or short-term respite care Our residents may live with complex health needs, dementia or mobility challenges Many come from Corbridge, Tynedale and the surrounding area We also support families, providing guidance, reassurance and compassionate partnership throughout their loved one’s care journey.
Our Strategic Aims (2024–2027)
Our strategy is centred around sustainability, quality, and connection:
1.Deliver Outstanding Care
2 Ensure high-quality, person-centred care through staff training, innovation and continuous improvement.
3 Support and Develop Our Workforce
4.Invest in recruitment, wellbeing and professional development to build a skilled, motivated team.
5 Enhance Our Environment
6.Improve facilities at Charlotte Straker House to support residents’ comfort, safety and independence
7.Build Stronger Community Links
8.Deepen relationships with families, health professionals, local organisations and volunteers
9.Secure Financial Resilience
10 Strengthen our funding base through responsible stewardship, fundraising and long-term planning.
OurValues
FAMILY
At Charlotte Straker, our values are expressed through the acronym FAMILY because whether you’re a staff member, volunteer, resident, relative or visitor, you’re part of the Charlotte Straker family
F – Focus on You
Everything we do is focused on our residents’ happiness. Our staff and management teams are passionate about delivering the very best in person-centred care. We take time to learn each resident’s personal history, strengths, hopes and ambitions respecting their past, supporting their present, and helping them plan for the future
A – Achieving Excellence
We work towards excellence in care so residents feel confident in the consistency and quality of the support they receive We strive for the best outcomes through feedback, continuous improvement and innovation. We recruit and nurture exceptional staff, offering ongoing learning, development, and respect for their personal and professional goals.
M – Make ‘Every Day Better’
We are committed and passionate in our daily interactions We take pride in going above and beyond the ordinary for every member of our family This means delivering exceptional care, supporting families and friends, and creating a safe, reassuring environment where everyone feels valued
I – Integrity
We are loyal, honest and transparent in all we do. We believe in doing the right thing even when it's not the easiest. We encourage open dialogue and compassionate communication, empowering staff, residents, and families to speak with courage and honesty
L – Linking to the Wider Community
We work collaboratively with everyone involved in a resident’s care families, social workers, health professionals, and volunteers. We are deeply embedded in the Corbridge and Tynedale communities and believe in strong partnerships with local groups, faith organisations, councils, businesses and fellow charities.
Y – Your Home, Your Choice
We respect every resident as an individual. We ensure their dignity, honour their aspirations, and support their independence. Where residents have capacity, we encourage them to shape their daily lives, routines and choices because Charlotte Straker House is their home.
OurRespiteCare
Respite in Action: Mike’s Story
When Mike Fyfe came to stay at Charlotte Straker House for a short period of respite care, it wasn’t just a break for him, it was a much-needed pause for his whole family
Mike, originally from Glasgow and now living in Tynedale, is living with early-stage dementia but remains very active A former rugby referee with Corbridge Rugby Club, Mike’s stay at Charlotte Straker House allowed him to rest and recharge in familiar, welcoming surroundings and even reconnect with old acquaintances. “I found out that I went to school with the husband of one of the residents in the bungalows!” he shared with a smile.
During his stay, Mike quickly settled into the warm, homely atmosphere of Charlotte Straker House. He particularly appreciated the kindness of staff, the structured daily routines, and the hearty meals although he joked, “The only complaint I have is there’s too much food. Three meals a day and then the tea trolley comes round!”
While Mike enjoyed peace of mind and daily companionship, his wife, Margot, was able to visit family in Bathgate - something that hadn’t been possible for some time “This is as much a break for Margot as it is for me,” Mike said “It’s a real weight off her mind”
Mike’s experience reflects the wider impact of our community respite bed, funded by charitable activities including events, donations and grant funding As the only free respite bed available across Tynedale, it plays a critical role in supporting families at times of stress, recovery or transition, offering high-quality, short-term care to those who need it most.
Mike’s story is just one of many, but it powerfully demonstrates how respite care can support not only the individual but the entire family unit, offering rest and reconnection in times of need
Respite resident, Mike Fyfe and his wife Margo
MeettheResident
George joined us in early 2025 after living alone for many years Although he had managed independently for a long time, his health had begun to make daily life more challenging, and following a short stay in hospital, it became clear that he needed a little extra support to live safely and comfortably.
Since moving into Charlotte Straker House, George has settled in remarkably well. With regular, home-cooked meals, assistance when needed, and the social life that naturally comes with our community, we have seen real improvements in his wellbeing. His confidence has grown, his strength has returned, and he has built meaningful connections with both residents and staff
As a long-time Corbridge resident, George often shares treasured memories of the building itself He recalls visiting when he was a child, when Charlotte Straker House served as the local cottage hospital, where his mother was cared for Those stories enrich our sense of history and remind us of our continuing role in the community.
George’s family are now also part of life here. They visit regularly and remain closely involved, even organising a surprise party for his 95th birthday in our dining room - a celebration shared with residents and staff that brought joy to the whole home George’s journey is just one example of how a place like Charlotte Straker House can transform later life With the right support and care, moving into a residential home can be the start of a safer, happier, and more fulfilling chapter
George with his daughters, Anita and Fiona
George joined us at Charlotte Straker House in early 2025
“Thank you to all the staff for the excellent care during my stay”
- Stephen, Respite Resident
“There was always plenty of staff around who were friendly, welcoming and caring The grounds and home were lovely, and I just wanted you to know how much as a family we really appreciate this all”
- Alison, Respite Family Member
"My Mum is doing so well thanks to the staff. They all go above and beyond. She has really benefited from support from the kitchen staff, making sure she has options they know she will like"
- Resident Family Member
"I have been overwhelmed by the standard of care. Every member of staff exudes an aura of calm professionalism, reassuring for residents and visitors alike"
- Nick Oliver, Corbridge County Councillor
Ouryearinnumbers
Respitecare:5688Hours
Between April 2025 and March 2026, we delivered 5688 hours of free respite care to individuals and families in need This vital support gave carers a much-needed break while ensuring their loved ones received safe, compassionate, and professional care.
Across our home, we employ 66 staff members who work in care, domestic, kitchen, and administrative roles. Every individual plays a vital part in ensuring our residents receive the highest standard of support in a warm, welcoming environment Their commitment, compassion, and teamwork are at the heart of everything we do
Volunteernumber:31
This year, 31 dedicated volunteers have supported us across a wide range of roles from helping with activities and one-to-one support, to fundraising efforts and behind-the-scenes work A successful recruitment campaign brought in some new friends, strengthening our volunteer community
We provide round-the-clock support for 39 fulltime residents - both within our main home and across our 8 supported living bungalows Whether offering full residential care or more independent living with tailored support, our focus remains the same: ensuring every individual feels safe, valued, and at home
Trips,activitiesandevents:500+
Highlightsthisyear
£20,000NationalLotteryFunding
We were delighted to receive £20,000 from The National Lottery Community Fund to help sustain our dedicated community respite bed This funding contributes directly to the ongoing costs of providing this important service, ensuring we can continue offering short-term care and support to individuals and families across our community. Support from The National Lottery Community Fund plays an important role in helping us maintain this valued provision and respond to local need
VotesHelpUsWin£500Donation
We were thrilled to receive the most public votes in Your NRG’s Giving Back initiative - a nationwide scheme supporting organisations making a local impact Thanks to the incredible backing from our community, we were awarded a generous donation that will directly enhance care services, staff training, and wellbeing programmes for our residents. We’re deeply grateful to everyone who voted, and to Your NRG for recognising and supporting the work we do every day
AWonderfulDayatOurAnnualFete
Despite rainy weather, our Annual Fete brought together residents, families, supporters and local businesses for an afternoon of community spirit and fundraising With stalls, games, live music from Charlie’s Choir and plenty of homemade treats, the event created a wonderful atmosphere and strong local support We were delighted to raise £2,016.42, with every contribution helping to support the vital services we provide at Charlotte Straker House.
VolunteerRecruitmentCoffeeMorning
Our Coffee Morning brought together residents, volunteers and visitors for a relaxed and welcoming morning at Charlotte Straker House. Guests enjoyed homemade cakes, conversation and the opportunity to learn more about joining our volunteer team. Events like this play an important role in strengthening connections with local people and encouraging community involvement in our work We welcomed several new volunteers as a result of this event, growing our volunteer support.
LeadershipReflections
Steve Adams, CEO
As we reflect on the past year, I am filled with pride and gratitude for everything our team, volunteers, residents, and supporters have achieved together Despite ongoing challenges in the social care sector, Charlotte Straker House has remained a beacon of resilience, and community spirit. Our commitment to delivering high-quality care and expanding our services continues to drive us forward.
This year, we’ve made significant strides from increasing the range of activities and outings available to residents, to enhancing our facilities with vital equipment like the new defibrillator Our dedicated staff and volunteers have been at the heart of these successes, embodying the values that make Charlotte Straker House a true home.
Looking ahead, we remain focused on sustainability, innovation, and deepening our connections within the wider community We are incredibly thankful for the generosity of our supporters and the trust placed in us Together, we will continue to provide exceptional care and enrich the lives of those we serve
Berenice Groves, Chair of Trustees
This past year has been one of both challenge and tremendous achievement for Charlotte Straker House As Chair of Trustees, I have witnessed firsthand the dedication, skill, and kindness that our staff and volunteers bring to their roles every day Their unwavering commitment ensures that residents receive not only excellent care but also a sense of belonging and joy.
Our community’s generosity has been inspiring from the funds raised through local initiatives like the Co-op Local Community Fund, our collaborative events with Corbridge charities and the overwhelming support in national schemes such as Your NRG’s Giving Back campaign These contributions are vital in bridging the gap between the cost of care and available funding, enabling us to maintain and improve our services
I am confident that with the continued support of our staff, trustees, volunteers, and community partners, Charlotte Straker House will thrive in the years to come, remaining a place where every individual is valued, recieveing high quality care and so much more
Governance
Karen Cadwallader Office Manager
Governance CommitteeStructure
To ensure strong oversight and effective management, Charlotte Straker House is supported by several key committees Each plays a vital role in governing the charity and guiding its work with clear focus and accountability
Executive Committee
ovides overall leadership and decision-making gs It oversees operational priorities, reviews d ensures that governance remains aligned with our mission and values.
Strategic & Finance Committee
The Strategic & Finance Committee combines long-term planning with he development of strategic goals, evaluates monitors their implementation. The committee ors expenditure, and ensures financial sustainability and transparency, working closely with the Executive team and auditors to safeguard the charity’s assets
Quality Committee
sponsible for maintaining and improving the e delivery It reviews compliance with ack from residents and families, and drives continuous improvement initiatives across the home.
Community Fundraising Committee
developing and monitoring fundraising strategies ms It supports relationship-building with donors, s and events, and ensures sustainable financial support for our services
All committees meet regularly throughout the year and report back to the full Board of Trustees These meetings ensure that key areas of the charity’s work - such as care quality, financial sustainability, strategic planning, and fundraising are closely monitored and effectively managed.
Board Development
It is important that as Board the Trustees and Senior Management Team continually review our aims and objectives and ensure we are meeting our charitable aims As we have had quite a few new members join our Board we agreed to hold a Board Development Session in September. The evening drew us closer together as a team, not least through offering some challenging perspectives on the role of the Charity Commission and the CQC. Overall, we had a very inspiring and challenging evening. Demands on services in social care continue to increase and the fact that we are a charity and not for profit provides us with a greater challenge We are seeing increasing austerity with regards to formal funding and a definite squeeze on charitable income Whilst daunting, adversity can be turned to advantage in inspiring new thinking and reinforcing the foundations for future success.
Strategy Review
A number of actions came out of the Board Development but we agreed to focus firstly on review of our overall strategy We will commence this early 2026 It was agreed that a strategic plan associated with all core areas of the charity’s work would enable effective board delegation to the CEO who in turn would use this as a framework for developing and delivering an operational plan, and to objectively report progress against a series of key performance indicators.
Based on existing knowledge of Charlotte Straker priorities (through discussions to date, annual reports and the website), reference to the ‘FAMILY’ values, a series of core strategic aims will be drafted relating to the following themes:
Resident care (clinical)
Resident experience (support, wellbeing and activities)
Home environment and facilities (physical)
Resources (including people and culture, finance, technology,)
Reputation, sustainability and governance (community engagement, income, compliance)
We will present the reviewed document to our Executive Board March 2026, with full Board engagement and agreement we will commence operationalisation of this from April 26
FinancialSnapshot
Our Income: A Diverse and Dynamic Picture
At Charlotte Straker House, our ability to deliver high-quality care relies on a range of income sources. We are proud to have a diverse financial foundation that allows us to remain resilient and responsive to the changing needs of our residents and the wider community.
Our total income is influenced by several key factors - most notably, occupancy levels and the individual care needs of our residents. These elements can vary year by year, impacting the balance between core income and additional fundraising support
Fundraising
Fundraising continues to be a vital part of our income mix. Thanks to the generosity of our community, supporters, and grant funders, we’ve seen strong engagement across all fundraising areas this year The chart below illustrates the breakdown of fundraising income for our last financial year, showing the contributions from grants, donations, legacies, and events Each segment represents not just financial support, but also the trust and commitment of those who believe in our mission.
While residential fees provide the foundation of our income, they do not fully cover the true cost of delivering high-quality care Fundraising enables us to bridge this gap, ensuring that every resident receives not only essential support, but the comfort and quality of life they deserve.
Fee Shortfall
A proportion of our residents are funded by their Local Authority. However, Local Authority fee rates do not fully reflect the actual cost of providing residential care. This results in an annual shortfall of approximately £80,000, which must be met through charitable fundraising. Without this additional support, we would face difficult decisions about service provision and sustainability. Fundraising ensures we can continue to provide high standards of care regardless of a resident’s financial circumstances.
Community Respite Bed
Our dedicated Community Respite Bed provides short-term care to support individuals and their families during times of need including following hospital discharge, illness, or to give carers a vital break. This service offers enormous benefit to the wider community and is funded by our charitable activity. The annual cost of providing this bed is approximately £63,000, relying on multiple sources of income including grant funding, donations and fundraising events. . By fundraising to support this provision, we are able to reduce pressure on families and local health services while maintaining accessibility for those who need it most.
Rising Employment Costs
As a responsible employer committed to fair pay, we fully support increases to the National Minimum Wage and associated National Insurance contributions. However, these necessary increases significantly impact operating costs in a care setting, where staffing represents the largest area of expenditure Fundraising helps us absorb these rising costs without compromising staffing levels or the quality of care delivered to residents
Maintenance, Improvements and Development
To provide a safe, welcoming, and homely environment, ongoing maintenance and investment are essential. Fundraising allows us to:
Upgrade facilities and communal areas
Invest in equipment and furnishings
Enhance outdoor spaces
Improve accessibility and comfort
These developments go beyond basic provision and they directly enhance residents’ wellbeing, independence, and daily enjoyment of life at Charlotte Straker House.
The Bigger Picture
The organisation’s fundraising strategy targets approximately £250,000 annually to support service enhancement, community respite provision and investment in the environment Every pound raised helps ensure Charlotte Straker House remains a safe and thriving home at the heart of our community.
MarketingandComms
Over the past year, we’ve made significant strides in strengthening our marketing and communications to connect with our community, supporters, and prospective staff
Digital Engagement
Our social media presence has grown across Facebook, LinkedIn, and Instagram, allowing us to stay connected and share real-time updates from life at Charlotte Straker House. These platforms have become vital tools for storytelling, celebrating achievements, promoting events, and engaging with the wider community. They've also helped us reach new audiences and build stronger relationships with local supporters and organisations
Newsletters & Printed Communications
To ensure our updates are accessible to everyone, we’ve expanded our printed newsletter distribution, placing more copies in the hands of residents’ families, local partners, and friends of the charity. We've also launched a fortnightly email newsletter for subscribers, offering timely updates on home activities, care developments, fundraising efforts, and community events Internally, our residents receive a printed bulletin, keeping them informed and engaged with everything happening within the home and in the local area
Recruitment Success
Our communications strategy has also supported recruitment. Over the summer, we successfully filled several roles by promoting vacancies through our social media channels and external partners This timely recruitment has reduced our reliance on agency support and helped us maintain continuity and quality of care across the home
Refreshed Branding
In early 2025, we unveiled a new brand identity, including a vibrant new logo and set of core values that reflect our commitment to compassionate, person-centred care. We are continuing to phase out old materials and documents to ensure all communications align with the refreshed brand and present a consistent, professional image
Through these combined efforts, our marketing and communications have become a more powerful tool for visibility, engagement, and growth - helping us share our story, celebrate our people, and promote the important work we do every day.
Thank You to Our Funders
We would like to extend our heartfelt thanks to all the organisations and trusts who have generously supported The Charlotte Straker Project over the past year These include Community Foundation North East, Roland Cookson Fund, Hadrian Trust, The William Leech Charity, Hedley Denton Trust, The WA Handley Charitable Trust, Sir James Knott Trust, Northumberland County Council, Ray Wind Funds, The National Lottery Community Fund, St Hilda’s Trust and Egger UK.