The word Eothen is of Greek origin meaning “from the east”, the dawning of a new and glorious day, the resurrection of life and a new beginning.
Our butterfly logo encompasses Eothen by its meaning of spiritual rebirth, transformation, change, hope and life.
In 1950, our founder, Audrey Miller, made her vision a reality and opened a home in Sutton, Surrey, dedicated to the care of elderly Christians. This served the community for 70 years before closing in 2020.
The charity had a board of trustees that was made up from members of Brethren assemblies from across the UK including Surrey, York, Leeds and Newcastle upon Tyne. The vision was to build on the work of Audrey Miller and establish care homes in other towns. Their work continued, with many people donating funds over the years. Their loyal and dedicated support has helped develop the organisation, creating strong links to the North East of England.
In 1964, our second home in Marine Avenue, Whitley Bay, opened. This was replaced in 1985 by a purpose-built home in Whitley Bay town centre. Land was secured for a third home and in 1989, Eothen Gosforth was opened.
As the organisation grew, it became too much work for a voluntary board and a head office was established in 1990 to support the homes through what is now a heavily regulated activity. The registered office moved to Northumberland Business Park in 2018.
Our most recent project was the design and build of a ground-breaking specialist dementia care home. This was opened in Wallsend in 2016 to meet the needs of our growing elderly population, so many of whom are now living with Dementia.
We continue to provide the best quality care based on our Christian Ethos and values.
