In a significant step marking a new era, the Royal Hospital Chelsea, an institution steeped in over 300 years of history, has welcomed its first female army veterans as Chelsea Pensioners. Dorothy Hughes, 85, and Winifred Phillips, 82, made history as they donned their new uniforms, becoming pioneers in the esteemed establishment founded by Charles II in 1682.
The Royal Hospital, originally established for the “succour and relief of veterans broken by age and war,” has exclusively housed male army veterans until now. The arrival of Hughes and Phillips signifies a notable evolution for the institution. Both women expressed enthusiasm for their new home. “I think it’s wonderful,” shared Phillips, adding, “I like men. I am alone. And I wanted to be looked after in my old age.”
The move has been met with broad support from their male counterparts. Ralph Dickinson, a 22-year Parachute Regiment veteran and a resident for nine years, remarked, “I don’t see there’s a problem… They’ve served just like us.” While acknowledging that some might resist the change, he characterised them as “the sort who always do.”
Initially, Ms. Hughes and Ms. Phillips will reside in the hospital’s new Margaret Thatcher infirmary. However, future refurbishments may see them, and subsequent female pensioners, integrated into the traditional dormitory-style living arrangements, albeit with individual cubicles like the men. They will wear the same iconic uniforms, although considerations are reportedly being made for practicalities like a pensioner’s handbag.
The hospital currently accommodates around 300 veterans from non-commissioned officer ranks and below, providing lifelong care. With roughly one place becoming available each week due to natural attrition, the inclusion of women is expected to increase the number of female residents over time, though they are unlikely to reach parity with men, reflecting the historical gender ratio within the army itself. Prospective pensioners, including the women, undergo a four-day trial stay to ensure compatibility.
Both women boast distinguished service records. Dorothy Hughes joined the Auxiliary Territorial Service (ATS) in 1941, serving on heavy anti-aircraft batteries defending against V1 flying bombs before contributing to research on fuses for defence against V2 rockets. Winifred Phillips enlisted in the Women’s Royal Army Corps (WRAC) in 1948, serving for 22 years in various global postings, including roles as a personal assistant to generals.
When playfully questioned about potential romances, Hughes, a former teacher, quipped, “Don’t spoil the fun. I have been 18 years alone,” before firmly stating, “No way.”
General Lord Walker, the hospital’s governor, hailed the women’s arrival as a “historic moment.” He acknowledged minor initial resistance to the change but confirmed that acceptance is now widespread, stating, “The vast majority accepted they were just as much soldiers. These two ladies have had distinguished careers.”
The integration of female veterans marks a significant, welcomed, and long-awaited chapter in the venerable history of the Royal Hospital Chelsea.
