Abbeyfield England joins the Charity Housing Alliance

Abbeyfield England has joined the Charity Housing Alliance, working alongside the Almshouse Association and partners from across the charitable housing sector.

This marks an important step for Abbeyfield England and the societies it represents.

Why this matters

Abbeyfield societies provide a range of housing and care options for older people across the country. This includes supported housing, often described as independent or retirement living, as well as, in some cases, residential care homes. Some societies provide both, creating a continuum of support as people’s needs change.

While the terminology and offer may vary, a core part of the Abbeyfield model is consistent: a balance of independence with the reassurance of support, typically including shared meals and a strong sense of community.

It is a distinctive model that has evolved over time, shaped by local communities and focused on providing both independence and everyday support.

For many residents, it offers an option between fully independent living and more intensive care, providing regular contact, companionship and day-to-day support without the need for full-time care.

However, the way these services operate is not always fully reflected in national policy and regulation.

Recent changes, including the Renters’ Rights Act, have brought this into sharper focus. Decisions made at a national level can directly affect how societies operate, from compliance and governance through to the services they are able to provide.

In turn, this affects the experience of residents and the stability of the communities they call home.

Working together as a sector

The Charity Housing Alliance has been established to bring organisations like Abbeyfield England together.

There are many charitable housing providers across the UK delivering essential services for older people. By working collectively, the Alliance strengthens the sector’s ability to:
•    Represent its experience more clearly 
•    Improve understanding of housing options for older people 
•    Support a more proportionate and informed approach to policy 

For Abbeyfield England, this helps ensure that the experience of its member societies is part of a wider, coordinated sector voice.

Looking ahead

Being part of the Alliance helps ensure that the contribution of charitable housing providers is clearly understood and reflected in future policy, supporting a more sustainable future for the organisations and communities they serve.

It also helps ensure that these housing and care models continue to be recognised in a way that allows them to operate effectively and respond to changing needs.

Ultimately, this is about protecting the ability of organisations like Abbeyfield societies to continue providing safe, stable homes and care for older people, and maintaining the communities that residents rely on.

Find out more

You can find out more about the Charity Housing Alliance here:
Visit the Charity Housing Alliance website