Saying Goodbye to Sally Barclay: A True Sunflower - 22 Dec 2025

After more than 14 years with Age Concern Sandwich — not to mention her time volunteering before that — we are saying a goodbye to Sally Barclay, our beloved Sunflower Centre Manager, as she moves on to new adventures.

On Friday, the Sunflower Centre was filled with gratitude, smiles, and a few happy tears as our Chairman, Jeffrey Sneller, gave a heartfelt speech. He presented Sally with a bouquet of flowers and gifts from all of us, a small token for a huge contribution.

Sally’s time with us has been nothing short of remarkable. She has not only managed the Sunflower Centre with dedication and warmth, but she has also run countless memory cafés, drop-ins, support groups, and Dementia Roadshows. Her work has touched the lives of so many families and individuals in our community, bringing support, understanding, and friendship wherever she goes.

In 2024, Sally was recognised for her outstanding contributions with the Dementia Friendly Kent Award for Community and Partnership — an achievement that reflects her passion, commitment, and the incredible difference she has made.

Sally has been much more than a manager; she has been a friend, mentor, and inspiration to staff, volunteers, and clients alike. While we will miss her energy, laughter, and dedication, we are so grateful for everything she has done. We wish her every happiness in this next chapter, confident that she will continue to make a difference wherever she goes.

Thank you, Sally, for everything — you have truly been a sunflower in our community.