Sobell House: Judi Dench wishes hospice happy birthday

Sobell House is marking 50 years of caring for people in 2026 with celebrations throughout this month celebrating the work of tireless individuals.

In a video to the hospice, Dame Judi Dench, said: “I want to send a very special message to Sobell House.

READ MORE: Oxford hospice celebrates 50 years of service

“On my first day at Quaker boarding school I sat next to someone called Joan Dickie.

“And she remained my close friend the whole time I was there.

“And then she got married and had family and we kept in touch and then I know at the very end of her life she went to Sobell House and I know because I went to visit her there.

“You looked after her there so beautifully.

“Thank you for looking after her and all the other people.

“You do that for all of us.”

Dame Judi Dench with two postcards last year (Image: Sobell House)

Dame Judi previously supported the hospice’s ‘My Lovely Postcard’ scheme, an initiative from the hospice and Beth’s Bursary Fund, founded in memory of Beth Foreman, who passed away from bowel cancer aged 32.

Lady Diana and the Duchess of Kent are just some of the celebrities that were featured in an array of photos to celebrate the 50th anniversary of a famous Oxford hospice.

In 1974, after many years of campaigning, discussion, and investment since 1962, building work began on Sobell House Hospice.

This was driven by the efforts of Dr Alistair Laing, Dr George Wiernik, and Sir Michael Sobell’s founding gift.

Sobell House officially opened on May 25, 1976.

The ward opened at half capacity, with 12 beds available. In this first year, they cared for 181 patients.