Ilford Park opened in 1948 at Stover Camp in Devon, on the site of a hospital originally built for anticipated D-Day casualties among American troops. According to Veterans UK, 45 Polish resettlement camps were established across Great Britain after World War II, but Ilford Park is now the only one remaining. Following a ministerial commitment in 1987, a new purpose-built home at Ilford Park was opened in December 1992. Over 2,500 people and their families have called Ilford Park home since its founding, and it is known affectionately as 'Little Poland' by residents, the local Devon community, and Polish organisations.
Today, Ilford Park is home to 40 residents with an average age of 91, and it continues to welcome eligible applicants, ensuring qualified individuals receive care and community. According to Daily Express - Politics, Czesław Siegieda described how residents moved to other care homes would likely feel a deep sense of betrayal by the British government and suffer mental and emotional damage as a result. The specific reasons driving the Ministry of Defence's consideration to shut the scheme by 2028 have not been disclosed, nor have detailed proposals from the consultation ending on June 6.
All residents moved to other care homes would likely feel a deep sense of betrayal by the British government, and suffer mental and emotional damage as a result.
In January, the Ministry of Defence stated that as the 80th anniversary of Churchill's Promise approaches in 2027, it remained committed to honouring the historic pledge. Clare Thomas, Home Manager of Ilford Park Polish Home, said the home remains a vibrant place where old friends reconnect and new friendships are made. It is unknown how many eligible applicants are currently seeking or could be affected by the potential closure, and what alternative arrangements are being planned for residents if the home is closed.