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.

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.
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