Renovations have begun - refurbished Anchor Flats officially opened!

We're delighted to announce the opening of the refurbished Anchor Flats. Care Ashore has been providing support and accommodation for seafarers on the Springbok Estate in Surrey since 1945 and the freshly designed and modernly equipped properties will serve former seafarers for years to come.

Joe Nicholson, CEO of Care Ashore said “The refurbishment of the four, 1-bedroom apartments, remodelled with older residents in mind, is the latest step towards the delivery of Care Ashore’s new Strategic Plan - to provide safe, secure homes for seafarers within a supportive community. This project follows major upgrades already completed this year, including the replacement of all beneficiary accommodation windows to new double-glazed units.

Stuart Rivers, CEO of the Merchant Navy Welfare Board (MNWB), opened the refurbished flats on 10th December in the presence of beneficiaries, trustees and staff. The MNWB and The Seafarers’ Charity kindly provided grants covering some of the costs of new windows installed on the estate.

All residents in the UK who have worked at sea or are the dependants of those who have served at sea are invited to live at Care Ashore and enjoy the 220-acre Springbok Estate in Surrey’s tranquil countryside. Care Ashore offers something for everyone. Residents are able enjoy their freedom and independence with the option of meals being provided in the main dining room, along with enhanced support. The charity also provides regular transport to the local towns of Cranleigh and Horsham. There is a range of accommodation, and each home is equipped with an emergency call alarm to ensure residents' safety and peace of mind.

Within the estate there is a large social club with a fully licenced bar, large flat-screen TV, table tennis, bar billiards, darts and more. Residents and guests can take a seat in the snug bar, conservatory or on the terrace overlooking the beautiful grounds.

There are plenty of places to relax, indoors in the library or outside in the Japanese and walled gardens. There are extensive footpaths and woodlands to explore, and the private one-acre fishing lake is home to many species, including common, leather and ghost carp.

Care Ashore also provides holiday accommodation. The main house offers eight guest rooms with fantastic views across the open countryside, and a campsite with hard-standing pitches is open all year round.