Martha Trust was founded in 1987 by a compassionate group of local residents from Deal, Kent, who believed there had to be a more dignified and supportive alternative to long-stay NHS mental health hospitals and institutional care for people with profound disabilities. Guided by Christian values and a deep commitment to person-centred care, they established Martha Trust’s first home—creating a safe, loving environment where individuals could be nurtured, respected, and empowered to live life to the fullest.
Since our founding in 1987, Martha Trust has grown from a heartfelt vision into a thriving community of homes that empower people with profound disabilities to live life to the fullest. Here’s how our story has unfolded:
- 1986 Construction begins in Deal, Kent—laying the foundations for a new kind of care.
- 1987 On 22nd April, Martha House officially opens its doors, inaugurated by Princess Alexandra. A new chapter of dignity and support begins.
- 1994 Martha House expands to include dedicated respite care, offering families much-needed support.
- 1999 We open our second home, Frances House, in Deal—welcoming more residents into our nurturing environment.
- 2000 Our garden at Martha House is transformed by Charlie Dimmock and the BBC’s Ground Force team, creating a beautiful outdoor space for all to enjoy.
- 2003 Martha House undergoes another extension, adding extra living space and a new respite room.
- 2006 Mary House opens in Hastings, officially launched by HRH The Countess of Wessex. Meanwhile, the gardens at Frances House are completed—bringing nature closer to home.
- 2009 Mary House receives a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy pool and four additional residential rooms.
Frances House also expands, with HRH The Princess Royal opening four new rooms. - 2011 The hydrotherapy pool at Deal is refurbished, and Mary House unveils a tranquil sensory garden.
- 2016 Frances House grows again—adding four more rooms to support our growing family.
- 2021 At the beginning of September, our respite room at Deal is thoughtfully redeveloped into a residential room—responding to changing needs following the COVID-19 pandemic.
Also in the year, Mary House opens two new rooms, continuing our commitment to personalised care. - 2025 Our beautiful decking area is renovated over the pond at Martha House—creating a peaceful retreat for residents and visitors alike.