Jewish Care dedicates wing to Petplan founder Patsy Bloom

Jewish Care has paid tribute to Petplan founder Patsy Bloom by dedicating a wing in her honour .

The 84-year-old is co-founder and co-chair of the charity’s popular Bridge Extravaganza, which has raised more than £2.5 million.

Established in 1996 and a firm favourite in the charity’s fundraising calendar, the annual bridge event brings together around 200 players. Funds have supported care buses tackling loneliness, and today supports dementia day centres, providing specialist Jewish care for people living with dementia and their families – neither of which receive any government funding and are completely reliant on the generosity of the Jewish community.

Jewish Care chief executive Daniel Carmel-Brown said: “It is a true honour to stand here today as we dedicate this wing to a remarkable woman – Patsy Bloom – whose passion, generosity, and commitment have left an indelible mark on Jewish Care and the wider community.

“On behalf of Jewish Care, and everyone whose lives Patsy has touched, we want to thank Patsy for your warmth, kindness, and unwavering dedication for generations to come.”

Formerly a publicist for fashion designer Mary Quant, Bloom set up Petplan, the UK pet health insurer, in the 1970s after facing mounting bills for her own dog.

• The next Bridge Extravaganza tournament will be held on 17 November 2025. For more information, email harriet.broome@jcare.org