The Abbeyfield England Podcast

Abbeyfield Presents: Hidden Treasures

Abbeyfield England in collaboration with the Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham Society, is proud to announce Abbeyfield Presents: Hidden Treasures. This all-new podcast looks at the history, values and culture of Abbeyfield. Co-hosted by Michele Wainwright, General Secretary of Abbeyfield England, and Adam Rees, Chief Executive of Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham society, with guest speakers from one of our Bristol houses. 

Michele and Adam recording the podcast.
Episode 1: Welcome to Abbeyfield

Episode one of this new series entitled, ‘Welcome to Abbeyfield’, looks at the founding of Abbeyfield. In 1956, Richard Carr-Gomm opened the first Abbeyfield house with the belief that nobody should experience loneliness in later-life. This episode also examines how to uphold the values that Abbeyfield was built on whilst adapting to modern times.

Episode 2: Inside the House

Episode two looks at life inside an Abbeyfield house. We hear from residents in one of our Bristol houses who share what they love about their day-to-day lives as part of the Abbeyfield family. The staff share what they love about their jobs and how the house fosters a sense of community with both staff and residents. This episode explores what it is about an Abbeyfield house that makes it feel like home. 

Episode 3: Connections - From Loneliness to Laughter

Episode three investigates the difference between loneliness and social isolation, and how every Abbeyfield house strives to make each resident feel comfortable and settled. Michele and Adam discuss how the values of Abbeyfield are upheld within our houses and the activities that the residents take part in make everyone feel included whilst maintaining their independence.

Episode 4: Why do people come and live at Abbeyfield?

Episode four, ‘Why do people come and live at Abbeyfield?’, is about the tough decisions residents make to move into retirement living and why they choose Abbeyfield for the next stage of that journey. Our hosts discuss how residents often rediscover themselves at an Abbeyfield house, making new friends and taking part in new activities, all the while keeping their independent spirit.

Episode 5: Housing Options

Our fifth and final episode examines the different living options that Abbeyfield offers. Independent, sheltered and care housing, as well as dementia-friendly care homes and nursing homes. Common misconceptions about Abbeyfield housing are addressed by both staff and residents and our hosts share helpful tips for older people who are considering making the change to go into retirement living.

This project was a collaboration of societies, staff and residents who all feel passionately about the sense of community and independence that can be discovered in Abbeyfield housing. Head to the Abbeyfield England Spotify or YouTube now to listen to our brand-new podcast and learn more about the ‘best-kept secret’: Abbeyfield.

Read more news and articles from Abbeyfield

International learning and the Abbeyfield spirit

International learning and the Abbeyfield spirit

We were delighted to recently welcome Oscar Lustin, Co-founder of Domani in France, to Father Popieluszko House in Acton, part of the Abbeyfield London Polish Society. The visit was a fascinating exchange of ideas and experiences, and a reminder that while housing and care systems may look different from one country to another, the values that underpin them can be remarkably similar.

  • Abbeyfield News
  • From our Homes
  • Domani
  • London Polish Society
  • Abbeyfield England
Read More
July at Friars Mead!

July at Friars Mead!

Friars Mead had a busy month of July. From games to BBQ's, see what residents and staff have been up to!

  • FriarsMead
  • 70thAnniversary
  • Celebration
  • Roundup
Read More
70 years of Abbeyfield at St Mary's House

70 years of Abbeyfield at St Mary's House

  • 70thAnniversary
  • Abbeyfield News
  • Celebration
Read More