Friends of the Elderly, has been selected to appear in a new publication entitled Monarchy and Democracy: A History of Leadership. An official History of Parliament project. This landmark book, produced in partnership with leading publisher St James’s House – an imprint within the SJH Group – and was launched on 9th June in the grounds of Westminster Abbey in London.
From providing ‘Penny Dinners’ for men returning from the First World War to a strong focus on dementia care, Friends of the Elderly has spent more than 120 years adapting to the changing needs of older people. “Today, the charity runs care homes and community day care services, whilst also supporting those facing financial hardship through its grants programme,” said Rachel Hill, Friends of the Elderly’s Chief Executive.
“In 2025, we awarded 996 grants ranging from £400 to £1,000, helping older people with essential costs, from heating to household items, often preventing small problems becoming crises.”
Written by a team of prominent academics and award-winning authors, including royal experts Robert Jobson, Russell Myers and Katie Nicholl, this beautifully presented hardback explores the evolving roles of Crown and Parliament in the leadership of the UK and the Commonwealth.
Harking back to the origins and impact of one of the most significant pieces of legislation in British history, the Act of Settlement 1701, the book goes on to document the shifts in power past and present, culminating in the transformative political and social changes of the past 100 years.
“Friends of the Elderly is very fortunate to have a long-standing relationship with the Royal Family – it’s an incredible privilege to have that support,” added Rachel. “The late Queen Elizabeth II was our Royal Patron for over 60 years, and Her late Majesty’s dedication and commitment was extremely important to the many older people the charity has cared for throughout the years.
“The new Patronage of The Princess Royal, and the ongoing Presidency of Her Royal Highness Princess Alexandra are also greatly appreciated by Friends of the Elderly, its residents, beneficiaries and staff.”
Dr Jennifer Davey, Director at the History of Parliament Trust, said, “The book not only explores the history and evolution of UK and Commonwealth governance and the shift to a constitutional monarchy, but also profiles a selection of organisations invited to join the project based on their relevance to the themes of leadership, innovation, sustainability and governance.”
Stephen van der Merwe, a Group Director at the SJH Group, added, “Through in-depth interviews with the leaders of organisations such as Friends of the Elderly, and by spotlighting their work, Monarchy and Democracy provides a compelling, first-hand perspective on how today’s organisational leaders are shaping the future in a wide range of areas, including governance, education, charitable work, enterprise and industry.”
Friends of the Elderly’s grants programme plays a vital role in supporting older people who may not be able to access other forms of help. “For many, a small amount of financial support can make a significant difference,” continued Rachel.
The charity’s care homes and day care services work with, and are part of, their communities. “We open our doors to schools, volunteers and local groups, creating shared experiences that help residents and day care clients remain connected to the world around them.
“Our day care services are also increasingly important as they support older people living with dementia and other age-related conditions, focusing on supporting independence and identity,” concluded Rachel.
The publication’s launch will also incorporate the London Press Club Summer Garden Party, which will be attended by more than 300 senior figures from the UK’s leading media organisations and will include a celebration of the life of Her late Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. “This is a wonderful opportunity to honour Queen Elizabeth II and the historic contribution she made to the nation and the Commonwealth,” said Robert Jobson, Deputy Chair of the London Press Club. “Hers was a remarkable life, one that continues to inspire generations around the world.”