Celebrating Lorna on International Women’s Day

This International Women’s Day, the team at our Brambles Residential Care Home, Redditch, are proud to shine a spotlight on the extraordinary life of 99-year-old Lorna White, a woman whose story embodies resilience, dedication, and service. 

 Born in Cheshire in 1925, Lorna’s early years were shaped by family traditions, which led her into domestic service at just 14.  

However, the outbreak of the Second World War set her on a different path. At 17, she joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service, beginning a distinguished military career that spanned over 14 years. Rising to the rank of Warrant Officer First Class, Lorna played a key role in vehicle maintenance and clerical operations, with postings in Singapore and Kuala Lumpur during the Malayan Emergency.  

It was during her service in Singapore that she met her future husband, Sergeant George Frederick White. Despite years spent apart due to military commitments, their love flourished. They married in 1959, eventually settling in Redditch, where they raised two children, Liz, and Peter.  

Beyond her military career, Lorna dedicated herself to community service. Her work with Redditch Council’s Voluntary Service, which she set up, spanned 14 years, making a profound impact on the local community.  

 

Her contributions were formally recognised in 2012 when she was awarded an MBE for her outstanding service. In 2013, she had the honour of meeting the then Prince Charles as part of the awards ceremony.

After suffering a fall at home, Lorna moved to Brambles, where she has found comfort and companionship. “The staff are incredible,” she says. “If all care homes were like Brambles, the world would be a better place.”

Lorna finds comfort in the home’s welcoming environment and said she loves her favourite bacon and mushroom sandwiches, which the chef cooks especially for her. Well-known for her humour, she affectionately named her walking aid “Harold.” 

As we celebrate International Women’s Day, Lorna’s story is such an inspiration. From her wartime service to her community advocacy, she continues to influence all who have the privilege of knowing her.  

For more about life at Brambles, or any of Sanctuary Care’s nine homes in Worcestershire, our Enquiry Support Team are here to help on 0800  331 7414.