BCOP started life as ‘Birmingham Council for Old People’ in 1946.  It was established by a group of concerned local people who realized that older people needed better care and support than what was available at the time.  World War 2 had destroyed many houses in Birmingham which further compounded the issues around providing medical and lifestyle support for older people.

For the last 75 years, BCOP has provided high quality care for older people in Birmingham – our pioneering spirit ensures the care we offer has evolved and adapted to reflect the changing needs of the community.

You can read more about the values that guide our organisation here.

Milestones

1946

Founded by leading social workers at Birmingham’s Council House with the assistance of volunteers.

1947

First two residential homes, Elizabeth Hadley House (Selly Park) and Calthorpe House (Perry Barr), were handed over to BCOP

1949

BCOP arranged for 40 older people to holiday for 1 week in Manor House, Bewdley.

1951

BCOP’s first Nursing home, Raymond Priestley House (Erdington) opened.

1955

BCOP opened the first day centre in the country.

1961

Birmingham’s first Meals on Wheels service was launched by BCOP

1962

Holidays offered by BCOP continued, which included a flight by Silver City Airline to the Isle of Man for 625 older people.

1965

BCOP opened UK’s first Over 60’s Centre in Balsall Heath

1970

Birmingham’s first purpose-built sheltered housing scheme, Harvey Court (Tile Cross), was built and open by BCOP.

1988

BCOP’s nursing home, Robert Harvey House (Handsworth Wood) was opened, completing phase one of a multi-purpose location.

1993

Phase two of the development in Handsworth Wood was completed, with the opening of sheltered housing scheme Whitley Court.

1996

Nursing home Neville Williams House (Selly Park) had been re-built and extended BCOP’s care provision.

2000

BCOP launch their Handy Person Service, offering essential help and support within the community.

2009

BCOP’s first ‘Pet-Farm’ was opened in the grounds of Neville Williams House (Selly Park).

2015

BCOP’s first outdoor ‘Sensory Street’ was opened at Robert Harvey House (Handsworth Wood)

2016

Anita Stone Court (Moseley) opens offering nursing care and supported housing.