At Wimbledon Common Care Home, part of the Avery Healthcare Group, the team recently celebrated an extraordinary achievement.
Resident David Satterthwaite has been awarded the UN-Habitat 2024 Scroll of Honour for his groundbreaking work in sustainable urban development.
This prestigious international recognition is a testament to David’s 50-year career dedicated to improving housing, urban life, and advocating for marginalised communities around the globe.
David, now 73, is not only a resident at Wimbledon Common but also a Nobel Prize Laureate and Senior Associate at the International Institute for Environment and Development (IIED). His award acknowledges his extensive contributions to urban development, particularly his tireless efforts to improve living conditions for urban residents in the global South, tackling critical issues like urban poverty, environmental health, and climate risks.
For many years, David worked at IIED, dedicating 47 years of his life to the organisation, from 1974 until his retirement in 2021. In addition to his research, he was a visiting professor at University College London and co-authored two influential books, Urban Poverty in the Global South (2012) and Reducing Urban Poverty in the Global South (2013). He also played a key role as a coordinating lead author on the urban adaptation chapter in the Fifth Assessment of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change.
In a moving gesture of gratitude, David dedicated the award to the care team at Wimbledon Common Care Home, where he has resided since 2022. “This award is a testament not just to my work but to the incredible support I’ve received throughout my career,” David remarked. “The care team here at Wimbledon Common Care Home have played a crucial role in my wellbeing, and I’m thrilled to share this honour with them.”
Hannah Ilsley, General Manager of Wimbledon Common Care Home, expressed the care home’s pride in David’s accomplishments. “We are delighted by David’s achievement and deeply moved by his decision to share this honour with our team. His dedication and vision continue to inspire us all. He is a truly remarkable individual.”
For activity coordinators, David’s story serves as a powerful reminder that care home residents bring with them not only incredible personal histories but also ongoing potential to influence the world. Whether it’s celebrating a lifetime of achievements or encouraging residents to share their knowledge and passions, we have a unique opportunity to help them continue making an impact, even from within the care home.
As we celebrate UN International Day of Older People, David Satterthwaite’s story serves as an inspiration to us all. On this important day, let's reflect on how we can empower residents to continue sharing their wisdom and talents with the world, ensuring their contributions remain valued and recognised in our communities.
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