A warm welcome every day: meet the people behind our Sheltered Housing communities
The heart of Abbeyfield isn’t just the homes - it’s the people who make them feel like family.
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 known, valued and cared for.
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:
- 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 every day” means in Abbeyfield homes
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.
Our approach means residents never feel alone. There’s always someone nearby - not to intrude, but to reassure.
Why human connection and community matters for later-life living
- 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 goes wrong - 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 (with some homes offering an optional meal service).
- Optional support available for those who want it.
- Learn 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.
- Learn more about Sheltered Housing
Residential Care
- 24/7 staff availability for personal care and support.
- Structured routines with flexibility for individual preferences.
- Regular activities arranged by an Activities Coordinator.
- Learn more about Residential Care
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.
- Learn more about Dementia Friendly Care
Service comparison table
Find the right level of support for your needs.
| Social Connection | Independent Living | Sheltered Housing | Residential Care | Dementia-friendly Care |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Staff presence | Limited/on-call | Daytime presence | 24/7 care team | 24/7 specialist team |
| Volunteer involvement | Occasional | Regular visits & activities | Frequent | Frequent |
| Social opportunities | Resident-led | Resident-led. Organised activities & shared meals | Daily | Tailored |
| Personalisation | High | High | Moderate | Moderate |
| Emotional reassurance | Low | Strong | Strong | Strong |
Would you like to meet the people who make Abbeyfield homes special?
Find a home near you, arrange a visit, and talk to our friendly team about life in our Sheltered Housing communities.
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.
Frequently asked questions (FAQs)
Yes, absolutely. Staff are there for reassurance and help when needed - not to intrude.
Indeed, Abbeyfield has a long standing history of volunteers from the community kindly giving their time. Volunteers bring an added warmth through visits, activities and events.
These can vary considerably by home depending on the hobbies , interests and preferences of our residents. Popular activities include coffee mornings, gentle exercise, crafts, seasonal celebrations - and bear in mind these are always optional.
All sheltered housing staff receive thorough and regular training in supporting older people in later-life, including safeguarding.
Yes, of course. Our homes are accessible and welcome family involvement. Speak to a member of staff at the house if you have specific questions about the home.