The Early years - 1946

The Second World War was over and the citizens of Cardiff recognised that many elderly people were suffering not only from the common factors that come with growing older, but also from the loneliness due to the lack of companionship.  Therefore, in 1946 an appeal was made by Mr Percy Williams in the local Cardiff press to raise funds to provide a safe caring home in Cardiff which would help to alleviate the suffering and loneliness endured by many older people.

In 1949, due to the success of this appeal “The City of Cartref Old People’s Welfare Committee” was formed and Cartref’s first property was purchased on the current site at Lake Road East, Cardiff.  In 1950 the property was converted and opened its doors to provide accommodation for the first twenty residents.  This was all made possible by the generosity of the people of Cardiff.  The committee was set up on a Charitable “Not for Profit” basis and today still holds Charitable status, making Cartref one of the oldest established Charitable care homes in the UK.

Later Years

During the years many properties were bought and sold, one of these being Cartref Station Road, Llanishen, Cardiff in 1973 and it is these two properties that are currently owned and managed by the Charity today.

The City of Cartref Old Peoples Welfare Committee changed its title to Cartref Limited in 2005 when it incorporated as a company limited by guarantee, whilst retaining its charitable status.

Today

The Board of Trustees, all volunteers with professional backgrounds are responsible for the overall management of the Charity and meet on a monthly basis.  The day to day running of the Charity is undertaken by the General Manager and our two Registered Managers oversee the day to day running of the homes.  The homes, management team, staff and residents are supported by an experienced team of administrators.

Since the establishment of Cartref more than 65 years ago there have been many changes within the care industry and Cartref prides itself on keeping up to date.   Our training for all staff is exceptional starting with a 12-week induction for all staff, exceeding the national standards guidelines for the care industry.  Providing regular “on the job” and “off the job” training for more than 130 staff.  All of our staff are subject to enhanced DBS (Disclosure Baring Service) checks in line with regulation.

Thousands of Cardiff residents have enjoyed the hospitality and the safe environment that Cartref has offered to elderly people, whilst still retaining our Charitable status and philosophy that we have held dear since 1949.