Our Blog

  • Chaseley and the Birth of the Paralympic Movement

    The story of Chaseley runs quietly through the early history of the Paralympic movement. Long before the Games became a global sporting event, Chaseley residents were already taking part in the [...]

  • Living Life Fully at Chaseley

    Hilary has lived at Chaseley for around 15 years. She describes it as a place where life continues with purpose, choice and people who know you well. She loves to read [...]

  • Portrait of doctor Guttmann

    Dr Ludwig Guttmann

    When Chaseley opened its doors in 1946, its first medical consultant was Dr Ludwig Guttmann — a German-born neurologist whose work changed how the UK cared for people with spinal and [...]

  • Bill Dempsey's 21st party, August 1958

    Bill D: A Life at the Heart of Chaseley

    Driving in a convoy to Bedford, the army lorry Bill of the Royal Army Ordnance Corps was travelling in overturned. He was trapped beneath the engine. Recovery was slow. Bill moved [...]

  • Chaseley Christmas 1964

    The Chaseley Boat Race: A Tradition Best Served in Pints

    Long before the charity fun runs, summer fairs and quiz nights through which Chaseley residents mingle with Eastbourne community members, they had their own unique way of reminding Eastbourne they were [...]

  • Archers at Stoke Mandeville

    Dartchery

    Long before dartchery appeared on the Paralympic stage, it began at Chaseley as a simple idea. Residents wanted a way to play darts against local pubs and clubs. Archery provided the [...]

  • Jack Atkinson

    Jack Atkinson

    Many people who visit Chaseley today will have spent time in the Atkinson Room. It is our large, multi-purpose space where residents take part in activities, enjoy film nights, dance at [...]