Are you interested in leading a fulfilling life in an Abbeyfield house or care home and want to find out more about our service? Here are some of the most commonly asked questions we receive from prospective residents.
Who are Abbeyfield's residents?
Our residents are men and women who are no longer able to continue living on their own. Each house gives priority to applicants who come from its local community, or who have strong community ties. We welcome older people from every walk of life, regardless of ethnic origin, gender, sexuality, class or religious beliefs.
What's the difference between a supported sheltered house and a care home?
Supported sheltered houses offer rented accommodation for older people who want an supported, but independent lifestyle. Residents receive as much support from their house manager and volunteers as they require, yet are able to look after themselves in many other ways. One, and often two cooked meals are provided every day
Abbeyfield’s care homes are specially designed and staffed to accommodate those who require 24-hour care.
Can I go straight into a care home?
Applications for places in Abbeyfield care homes from residents living in Abbeyfield supported sheltered houses are generally given priority over those of non-residents. However, societies don’t exclude direct entry for members of its local community if places are available.
Can married couples apply?
We primarily cater for older people living on their own. However, some married couples do live in Abbeyfield houses and care homes.
How much does living in an Abbeyfield house or care home cost?
Charges vary from house to house. You should contact your local Abbeyfield society to find out how much it would cost to live there. All costs include food and utility bills. If affordability is an issue, you may be entitled to claim Income Support or Housing Benefit. Your amount of savings can affect your entitlement to benefit. Your local Abbeyfield society, Citizen’s Advice Bureau or local Benefits Agency office can help you understand your best options.
Charges in care homes are higher than those in supported sheltered housing to cover the costs of specialist staff and additional care provision. If you need help with paying fees you will have to apply to your local Social Services department.
Will you need to know my financial circumstances?
Abbeyfield will need to confirm that you’re able to afford the charges and will request that you sign an agreement to pay. We treat all personal information in the strictest of confidence.
What is a ‘sponsor’?
We ask our residents to nominate a trusted relative, friend or professional adviser to act as their ‘sponsor’ or representative. This is someone who can be contacted in case of an emergency. No financial involvement is required, just their continued interest and support.
Your sponsor helps ensure that your requirements are met. They liaise with the house on your behalf, which is especially important if and when you’re ill. If you’re unable to suggest someone, your Abbeyfield society may be able to recommend a suitable local person.
Will my room be decorated and furnished?
All rooms are unfurnished, but usually come with a carpet and curtains. This allows you to bring your own choice of furniture and furnishings to your room.
Will I have to look after my own room?
In some supported sheltered houses, and in all care homes, cleaning is part of the standard service. In many houses cleaning your room is your responsibility, but you can engage domestic help at your own cost, should you wish. Contact your local Social Services department to find out if they can provide you with further domestic support.
Will I receive daily meals?
The house manager is responsible for providing one, and often two cooked nutritious meals daily. You’re responsible for preparing your own breakfast, but the house manager supplies everything you need. This means that you can get up and eat breakfast when you wish.
Staff prepare all daily meals in care homes.
Please notify the house manager or society committee member of your house if you have any special dietary requirements.
Will I have to share a bathroom and toilet?
In very few Abbeyfield houses you might have to share. However, most houses offer rooms with en suite facilities.
Is smoking allowed?
Different societies have different rules. Smoking is usually permitted in our houses and care homes, but not in communal areas.
Are the house rules strict?
We don’t have any rules other than those of common courtesy. Abbeyfield is your home.
Can I bring my pet?
This varies from house to house, caged animals can usually be accommodated. However, larger animals such as cats and dogs can be more difficult. Please ask when you apply if your pet can be accommodated.
Will I have a telephone and television?
There is usually a phone socket in each room if you wish to install a phone at your own expense. Similarly, most houses and care homes have a communal TV, and you can install a TV in your own room at your expense. You should be eligible for a concessionary TV licence.
How can I find out if an Abbeyfield house would suit me?
All of our houses and care homes are different; they each have different facilities and atmospheres. We advise that you visit a few before you make up your mind. We suggest that you talk to the volunteers, the house manager and residents to find out about what life is like at Abbeyfield.
What happens if I become ill?
Minor illnesses can be managed within Abbeyfield houses. In many houses, our residents are able to bring in paid care services whose costs are either covered privately or by Social Services. If you have to stay in hospital for any reason, it will be taken for granted that you will return to your room.
Should you require long term care or nursing care, other arrangements may have to be made in consultation with you, your sponsor, family or friends and your local health authority.
Why can’t I choose any Abbeyfield house to live in, as I would a hotel?
Our houses are small households. Each society has a responsibility to give preference to older people from its local community and those most in need of its limited number of rooms.
Do all Abbeyfield societies operate in the same way?
Many Abbeyfield houses and care homes are locally managed and are responsive to local needs and conditions, but all are bound by our guiding principles.
How do I apply to become an Abbeyfield resident?
Click here to see search list of all Abbeyfield houses and care homes in the UK. Please contact each house or care home in which you’re interested to request a brochure and application pack. A house manager, care home manager, volunteer or administrator will be able to talk you though the process of making an application. Alternatively, you can contact our reception desk at our head office on tel: 01727 857536 or email us to receive application details.