“I’m happy again”: a story of unexpected friendship at Lichfield Bonds

They say that home isn’t a place, it’s a feeling, and for Eddie and Malcolm, that feeling is one of companionship and “contented happiness”.

While they didn’t know each other before moving to Lichfield Bonds, they have since forged a bond that proves it is never too late to start a fresh chapter. Both men arrived at our community following similar, difficult crossroads; both had recently lost their wives after long illnesses and found themselves rattling around in large family homes that had grown too quiet.

“I need people around me,” Eddie told us. “I knew I couldn’t stay in the house alone.”

After heart-to-hearts with family and a search for a better way of living, both men found their way to the bustling city of Lichfield - a place our residents affectionately call the “gastronomical centre of the world” for its wealth of restaurants and cafes. 

The heart of the community

While the apartments at Lichfield Bonds offer a modern elegance that wow guests, Eddie and Malcolm agree that the residents' lounge is the true "pièce de résistance."

“It’s difficult to make friends as we get older,” Eddie admits. “But not here, people greet you as soon as you come in”. The lounge removes the hassle of hosting in your own apartment, providing a natural hub for fish-and-chip nights, coffee mornings, and themed evenings (like a recent ‘murder mystery night). It was here that their friendship blossomed over a cup of tea and friendly ‘hello’. 

The lifestyle at Lichfield Bonds is defined by a "gentle nudge" from our dedicated on-site team. We champion independent living, but we also know that at any age, there is a comfort in being "checked on" and considered.

More than just neighbours

Spending time with Eddie and Malcolm, it’s clear that their friendship is the cornerstone of their daily lives. From road trips and theatre outings to shared holidays, they have built a life that is social and fulfilling.

For Eddie, who shared 58 years of marriage with his late wife, the move has been transformative. “[After losing my wife], I never thought I’d be happy again, I thought my life was over” he shared - a poignant reminder of how devastating the loss of a beloved partner can be. Malcolm echoes this sentiment, after losing his wife he had “an emptiness and realised he had to make a change”. Whilst it wasn’t an easy move for him, selling the family home and downsizing not only allowed him to help his children financially, but the move to Lichfield filled the emptiness. “I could have just bought a flat somewhere”, Malcolm explains, “but then, I wouldn’t have had this camaraderie". Malcolm aptly describes this way of community living as"limited companionship", it’s there for you when you want it.

"It’s independent living, but you’re not on your own”.

The perks of hassle-free living

Beyond the camaraderie, the move to Lichfield Bonds has brought a welcome sense of ease and practical relief to both men’s lives. For Eddie, the transition meant trading the constant upkeep of a large garden for professionally maintained grounds. Meanwhile, Malcolm enjoys the peace of mind that comes with lower utility bills, no longer burdened by the cost of heating a large, empty house. Together, they’ve found that the beauty of independent living is the freedom from these domestic stresses, allowing them more time to focus on what really matters.

A word of advice

When asked what they would say to anyone who has been through a similar situation to them and may be considering a move to a later living community, the pair offered a bright smile and a simple invitation: “Come and see us.”

Today, Eddie and Malcolm describe this chapter of their lives with three simple words: “Contented with happiness.” In the end, you really can’t ask for more than that.

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There is no better time to make your move to a Pegasus Homes community. We are offering the choice of three incredible incentives to help make your decision a little easier. Choose from:

• A 5% discount off the purchase price of the property, or

• Stamp duty (tier 1) paid for, or

• 50% of the service charge for five years

Not sure what incentive will be right for you? Our Customer Advisor teams will be able to discuss your requirements with you and help show which incentive could save you the most money, based on which apartment you choose. You must reserve your apartment by 31st March 2026 and must complete your purchase by 30th June 2026. 

Terms apply. For full details, visit pegasushomes.co.uk/company/legal/terms-and-conditions