“I was born Shirley Frankel after Shirley Temple and so were many other girls in my class. To differentiate me from all the others, they called me Frankie and that’s how it’s been ever since. I grew up in South Norwood and worked at Nightingale House. I left when I got married and had children and them came back to work here again. I was surprised to see how much it had grown! I was the one and only secretary to Asher Corren for many years, so Nightingale House has always been part of my life, part of my history.

I moved into Nightingale House as a Resident in 2020 after my beloved husband died. I wanted to move here as I was familiar with the home, working here was my only job, so I knew I would be alright living here. It was an easy transition for me, easier than for many people who move into a care home. My children are married and live in other parts of the UK. I didn’t want to move to the Cotswolds to live with my daughter, I wanted to be somewhere I knew well and where I could enjoy the cultural aspects of Judaism and to celebrate the festivals.

Whilst I can, I take part in lots of activities. I love the exercise groups, the discussion group and the cooking sessions. Shira, the Engagement Lead on Wine is very special and looks after all of us so beautifully. Everyone is friendly and kind and I am very happy to have moved here. I didn’t want to go anywhere else; this is my home.” – Frankie, Resident