Our history
1976 – Abbeyfield open a pioneering home on Beehive Lane. The visionary couple behind this home were Ferring’s very own Joan Cornwell and her husband Bill. Now under the brand of Beehive Care, like our founders, we are still committed to creating a thriving and supportive community for our members, believing that the key to happiness in later life lies in being part of a caring and nurturing community.
1982 – Following the success of our initial venture, we expanded our efforts in Ferring by opening Old School House, a supported living home, on the site of Ferring’s old primary school. This new facility was designed to provide a welcoming and secure environment for those who need additional support while maintaining their independence. The transformation of the old school into a home signifies our dedication to preserving the essence of our community’s history while adapting to meet contemporary needs. (An interesting fact: the cross on Ferring C of E Primary School is made from the old roof tiles from the old primary school).
2000 – Abbeyfield launched Support at Home, building on our commitment to support the vulnerable in our community, an initiative aimed at assisting those in Ferring who needed help while living independently. This program ensured that vulnerable individuals received the care and support they needed within the comfort of their own homes.
2013 – our current CEO, while working for another organisation, collaborated with a dedicated team to launch Dementia Friendly Worthing. This initiative focused on making Worthing a more inclusive and supportive environment for those living with dementia and their families.
2017 – when our now CEO joined Abbeyfield, she brought her knowledge and experience of building dementia services to the offering the Abbeyfield had…
2023 – we rebranded as Beehive Care, reflecting our evolving mission and expanded services. As part of this transformation, we integrated the Dementia Hub, formerly known as Dementia Friendly Worthing, into our organisation. This adoption underscores our commitment to providing comprehensive care and support for those affected by dementia within our community.
Meet Our Team
Jacqui Swindells – CEO
After owning my own Hairdressing business in London for 15 years I decided to change careers and moved to the South Coast. I qualified as a counsellor in 2003 and moved into working in Health and Social Care. While working for a third-sector organisation in Worthing, I gained an MA in Leadership and Management in Health and Social in 2015 from Chichester University and came to work at Beehive Care in May 2016.
Tammy Townsend – HR and Payroll Manager
After leaving school and starting my career off in travel, in 2001 I moved into the Banking sector where I remained for 14 years during which time I had my family, I decided I wanted to work in a role where I could feel fulfilled, fitted with my family and to give back. In 2015 I moved into Health and Social Care in an administrative role and volunteered within services to gain experience and knowledge, before completing my HR training and joining Beehive Care Oct 2017.
Lynsey Tran – Head of Dementia Services
Lynsey has dedicated her entire career to the care sector, developing a deep passion for supporting individuals living with dementia. Lynsey has two decades of experience working with local health and social care charities, bringing both compassion and expertise to every role. She holds NVQ Level 2 and 3 qualifications in Health and Social Care, and a Diploma in Person-Centred Dementia Care. Her approach has been shaped not only by formal training but by the many inspiring individuals she’s had the privilege to support. Lynsey joined Beehive Care in 2016 and in 2025 was appointed Head of Dementia Services.
Our Mission & Vision
Mission: To ensure there is no reason for anyone in our community to grow old alone.
Vision: A world where older people live full, meaningful lives and are valued for their contribution to society.
A Range of Services to Meet Individual Needs
We understand that everyone has unique care requirements. That’s why we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to cater to the diverse needs of older people in our community. Whether it’s support at home to help maintain independence, supported living to enjoy a sense of community, or residential care for those who need a higher level of assistance, we are here to provide the care and support you need.
A Philosophy of Independence and Safety
At Beehive Care, our care philosophy centres around enabling older individuals to maintain their independence while ensuring their safety and continue to thrive in later life. We understand the importance of feeling supported and valued, which is why our dedicated team of carerstreats our customers, residents, and guests as if they were part of their own family. We involve members in decision making, engage them in community initiatives, and respect their ideas and preferences.
Our latest CQC ratings
