About

Chaseley opened its doors in October 1946, dedicated to serving people with severe physical disabilities. The Second World War had ended just over a year before, and the devastation was still visible across Eastbourne—the bombed- out shell of St John’s Church in the Meads, 10,000 homes damaged or destroyed, and countless lives forever changed. Among those affected were the men treated at Chaseley in the immediate post-war years, who arrived with injuries needing both physical therapy and social care. Here they found a place of recovery, community, and purpose – a story that has continued to evolve and inspire to this day.

Central to Chaseley’s history is Dr Ludwig Guttmann, later Sir Ludwig, a refugee from Nazi Germany and a leading authority on the treatment and rehabilitation of people with neuro and spinal injuries. Appointed as Chaseley’s Medical Consultant from the start, Dr Guttmann pioneered an approach combining medical care with therapies, social activities, and sports, enabling individuals to regain independence and reach their potential.

We specialise in providing long-term nursing care for individuals with complex neuro-disabilities, including Acquired and Traumatic Brain Injury, Stroke, Spinal Cord Injury, and degenerative neurological conditions such as Huntington’s Disease, Multiple Sclerosis, and Motor Neurone Disease.

While our residents may have changed since the early days of the “Chaseley Boys,” our household remains diverse and active. Our current residents are 24 to 89 come from across the UK, drawn by our expertise in neuro disability care. Today’s residents share one experience: the sudden, life-changing impact of some of the most disabling conditions. Their worlds were turned upside down, each in a unique way: an award- winning farrier whose career ended after being kicked in the head by a horse; a lifelong football fan who suffered a fall at a match with his family; a talented musician now living with advanced MS; and a young entrepreneur whose life was forever altered in a head-on car collision.

Guided by Dr Guttmann’s holistic approach, we offer comprehensive care and personalised rehabilitation, including physiotherapy, speech therapy, and various social and recreational activities. This ensures our residents maintain as much independence and control over their lives as possible.

We are always grateful for donations to help maintain our grand old home. Whether you’d like to make a donation, volunteer your time, or simply spend time by the sea with one of our residents, your support can make a world of difference.

Dr Guttmann’s legacy, marked by initiating the Stoke Mandeville Games, later evolving into the Paralympic Games, underscores our belief that individuals with disabilities should not be defined by their challenges but should have the opportunity to live a complete and vibrant life.

For donations, fundraising ideas, or volunteering, please email fundraising@chaseleytrust.org.