Connection and Community. Meet the teams behind our Sheltered Housing
When people talk about Abbeyfield, they often mention the buildings - the gardens, the cosy lounges, the bright dining rooms. But what truly makes our homes special is the people who bring them to life. From the first hello to the last cup of tea in the evening, our teams create an atmosphere where residents feel cared for and valued.
Sheltered Housing is about independence with reassurance. That reassurance comes from human connection - the friendly faces who greet you each day, the staff who notice the little things, and the volunteers who make time for conversation. It’s these relationships that turn a house into a home.
At Abbeyfield, the welcome isn’t just warm - it’s personal and consistent making you feel part of our community.
How our team supports you:
- Friendly, familiar faces: staff and volunteers who know residents by name and understand their preferences.
- Everyday presence: someone to chat to, someone to ask for help - without feeling intrusive.
- Community spirit: shared meals, activities and conversations that make life sociable and supportive.
- Reassurance for families: knowing loved ones are surrounded by people who care.
What a warm welcome means at Abbeyfield
It’s more than politeness. It’s about creating a home where residents feel seen and included. Our teams:
- Take time to listen: whether it’s a quick hello or a longer chat over tea, conversations matter.
- Notice the details: a favourite chair, a preferred meal, a hobby that a resident enjoys - these small touches make a big difference.
- Encourage involvement: from coffee mornings to seasonal celebrations, staff help residents join in without pressure.
- Offer gentle support: practical help when needed, delivered with kindness and respect for independence.
This approach means residents never feel alone. There’s always someone nearby, not to intrude, but to reassure.
Why human connection and community matters in later life
- Emotional wellbeing: research from Age UK shows that loneliness can harm health. A friendly environment supports confidence and happiness.
- Safety and reassurance: staff presence means help is available quickly if something is needed - without compromising independence.
- Sense of belonging: familiar faces and shared routines create comfort and stability, especially during life transitions.
- Family peace of mind: relatives know their loved one is surrounded by people who care, not isolated or overlooked.
Human connection is central to Abbeyfield’s mission to make later life feel positive and purposeful.
How staff presence works across Abbeyfield services
Independent Living
- Staff presence on-site; residents manage their own meals and day-to-day routines.
- Some of our homes have overnight staffing, these include Hale Court in Tunbridge Wells, and Girton Green in Cambridge.
- Optional support available for those who want it.
Find out more about Independent Living
Sheltered Housing
- Daytime staff presence for reassurance and practical help.
- Meals provided and served to residents in communal dining room.
- Regular events and activities decided by residents and typically organised by staff.
- Volunteers often add community connection through visits and activities.
Find out more about Sheltered Housing
Residential Care Homes
- 24/7 staff availability for personal care and support.
- Structured routines with flexibility for individual preferences.
- Structured activities arranged by an Activities Coordinator.
Find out more about our Residential Care Homes
Dementia Friendly Care Homes
- Specialist teams trained to provide calm, consistent support.
- Focus on sensory wellbeing and gentle engagement activities arranged by an Activities Coordinator.
Find out more about our Dementia Friendly Care Homes
Mealtime experience across service types (comparison table)
| Service Type | Mealtime Approach | Everyday Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Independent Living | Cook at home in your own modern kitchen. Some of our homes offer the option to join communal meals or have them provided at an additional cost. | Total choice and flexibility to suit your personal lifestyle. |
| Sheltered Housing | Nutritious, home-cooked lunch and dinner provided daily in shared dining rooms. Breakfast ingredients are typically provided for you to enjoy at your own pace. | Companionship and convenience without the hassle of prep or washing up. |
| Residential Care | Tailored menus and support focused on high-quality nutrition. We use Apetito in all care homes (except two) to ensure consistent standards. | Safety, nutrition, and 24/7 peace of mind for those needing daily care. |
| Dementia Friendly Care | Calm, structured dining using specialised, nutritionally dense Apetito solutions with gentle assistance to support hydration and appetite. | Dignity, comfort, and reassurance in a familiar, supportive setting. |
Experience an Abbeyfield mealtime for yourself
Choosing the right home is a big decision, and we believe the best way to understand the Abbeyfield lifestyle is to experience it first-hand. Why not join us for lunch? You can meet our residents, speak with our dedicated staff, and taste the fresh, nutritious food we serve every day.
Find a home near you and talk to our friendly team today.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
No. Sheltered Housing is designed for you to keep to your routine and enjoy your private space. Support and companionship is available when you want it, and activities are always optional.
Absolutely. Volunteers bring additional warmth through visits, activities and events.
Coffee mornings, gentle exercise, crafts, seasonal celebrations. These are always optional and resident-led and ideas are discussed at monthly resident meetings.
All team members receive training in later-life support and safeguarding.
Yes. Homes are chosen for accessibility and welcome family involvement.
Next steps
What type of care do I need?
If you think you, or someone you know, needs care, the first step is to get a care needs assessment from your local council. We've put together a guide on the care needs assessment process, how to prepare and what happens after you've had an assessment.
When is the right time to move into a care home?
Arranging care at home or moving into residential care or sheltered living can be a complex process, but we’re here to help. We’ll take you through paying for care, step by step.
Housing options for older people
If you’re thinking about where you might like to move as you get older we can help. We've listed some housing options for older people for you to explore and find out the difference between each.