Our Origins
Somerset Place Society has a proud history rooted in service. Originally established as a Red Cross facility, it provided subsidised and affordable housing, care, and security for retired people. In 1988, the Red Cross chose to refocus on its core humanitarian mission and transferred its retirement facilities in Grahamstown and Port Elizabeth to trusted organisations. Somerset Place Society took stewardship of the Grahamstown facility, while the Echo Foundation assumed responsibility in Port Elizabeth.
Since then, we have operated independently, guided by the Housing Development Schemes for Retired Persons Act (Act 65 of 1988). This legislation was introduced to protect retirees after early speculative developments caused significant losses for investors. Today, it continues to safeguard the rights of retired people—something we uphold with diligence and pride.
Our Legal Status
Somerset Place Society is a Voluntary Association, similar to a cooperative or club. This means:
- We have a constitution and full legal standing.
- We can own property, enter contracts, and manage finances.
- The Society belongs entirely to its members, who provide the funding for all expenses—capital and operational.
- Donations and purpose-specific fundraising are the only exceptions to member funding.
Every resident automatically becomes a member of the Society, and others may join upon approval by the Governing Body and payment of an annual fee.
Governance & Responsibility
The Governing Body holds ultimate administrative and financial responsibility under the Older Person’s Act. Its members are drawn from the wider community and bring diverse expertise, including academics, advocates, financial practitioners, medical doctors, and business leaders. Importantly, they serve voluntarily and without remuneration, ensuring governance is both professional and altruistic.
Day-to-day operations are overseen by the General Manager, who manages:
- Administration and budget control
- Resident liaison and new applications
- Maintenance of gardens, infrastructure, and essential services (electricity, water, refuse removal)
The Helen Berrington Frail Care Centre is managed by a dedicated Frail Care Manager, supported by qualified nursing staff and carers, ensuring compassionate and professional care for residents requiring higher levels of support.
Resident Representation
The Residents Association (RA) plays a vital role in ensuring resident voices are heard. While not part of the formal governance structure, it gathers feedback, concerns, and suggestions from residents and channels them to the General Manager and Governing Body through monthly meetings. All members of the Society are automatically part of the RA, though participation in its activities is voluntary.
Our Commitment
Somerset Place Society exists to provide safe, dignified, and community-oriented living for retired people. With strong governance, transparent operations, and a culture of care, we continue to uphold the values of trust, independence, and wellbeing that have defined us since our beginnings.