Our Registered Manager will conduct a comprehensive pre-admission medical assessment where our care professionals will ensure that your Abbeyfield home is suitable for your needs not just now, but for the foreseeable future.
Generally if people can support themselves with the help of one person from a chair to wheelchair, or use a frame, they’ll find residential care to be the right fit.
Residents are always at the forefront of all care planning and they can choose how actively involved their loved ones are.
Our highly experienced and trained care professionals will have knowledge of your conditions ensuring all your needs are expertly cared for. They will also liaise with doctors and other professionals regarding on-going care.
General nursing requirements, like wound dressing changes, will be administered by visiting district nurses.
Our teams work closely together and are collectively responsible for their care. Each resident also has a designated care plan coordinator and a key worker to oversee their wellbeing.
Yes, all our homes are specifically laid out to ensure ease of access around the home. If you have any difficulties, our staff will be on hand to help too. All toilets have rails and mobility aids are available on request.
Our homes all have access to a GP and will help you register, or retain your current GP if they are local to the area.
Our senior care staff will always work closely with residents and loved ones to ensure health and well-being is regularly monitored and reviewed.
If hospital transport is not available, and loved ones are unable to help, our brilliant team of volunteers are on hand to help! We always ensure one of the care team accompanies them.
The team will discuss any extra care needs you may require with you and your loved ones in advance. We have the facilities and skilled teams to increase care levels throughout the care journey with minimal disruption to residents.
In most cases our chefs can provide nutritious home cooked meals daily and offer a variety of dietary options such as low sugar, soft diets, vegetarian or gluten free. Just speak to your care team and they will be happy to organise this for you.
Each home has a community optician visit the homes, a regular chiropodist and a mobile dentist also visit our residents. Our hairdressing team visits weekly too and some of our homes even have our own salon. Please note that some of these services incur small fees.
Within our Society, residents’ well-being is paramount. The activities team chat with residents on an individual basis, and also within organised group activities. We hold regular trips and social events, too.
We keep in touch with you using your preferred method of communication. The care team provide courtesy updates if a loved one had a GP visit or minor accident, and our management team contact you every month for a general chat.
All our staff are food hygiene trained and the chefs are on site eleven hours a day. so a snack can always be provided. Drink and snack trolleys are also conveniently situated throughout the homes, as well as fruit bowls.
We actively encourage family and friends to visit the homes any time and become a regular part of Abbeyfield life. If special government guidelines on visiting are in place for safety reasons, we will follow advised procedures ensuring everyone’s safety.
Our homes have secure entrance points however residents are free to come and go. There is a strict signing in procedure and all immediate grounds are covered by CCTV. Each room has its own call point that residents can ring 24 hours a day.
Residents are encouraged to make their space their home. As far as practically possible they can bring furniture, pictures, ornaments and anything else that makes them feel at home in their own room. We do however need to insist that our beds are used from a health and safety perspective.
Residents are discouraged from keeping any more than general change and there is a petty cash system in place. Any items purchased from the mobile shop or services received can be placed to your charge account.
The gardens and outdoor spaces at the homes are well cared for and easily accessible. They can be enjoyed from the indoor conservatories or from the patio areas within the gardens. Some of our residents enjoy gardening while others prefer to sit back and just enjoy the lovely environment.
As a care charity, the needs of our residents are the number one priority. The ratio of staff to residents is based on residents’ dependency scoring. This ensures sufficient numbers of staff to meet residents’ needs at all times, day or night.
Absolutely, we encourage this and all our homes are situated in very convenient locations within beautiful natural countryside.
Residents are encouraged to remain as independent as possible and staff are always on hand for support. There are several house activities residents enjoy that promote gentle exercise.
Although residents do not have their own pets living with them, the community is very pet friendly and visitors often bring in their dogs when visiting residents. Some of our homes even have their own resident dog!
Wifi is available throughout the homes. Communal TV areas have books and magazines, while some homes enjoy a shared computer. All residents receive help with IT and communication from staff or volunteers.
Yes, each home’s activities coordinator runs group activities as well as providing plenty of one-to-one engagement. There are also regular outings to places of interest at no extra cost. All part of the social environment we value so highly.
It often takes time to settle into a new environment, so please speak with staff who will do all they can to help. Sometimes people who are unsure, try a month of respite care to begin with (subject to availability).
Nursing care provides all the benefits of residential care with the addition of 24-hour nursing support. Our nursing care homes have qualified nurses on duty around the clock and a higher number of carers to assist residents with more complex health needs. This level of care is suitable for those requiring regular medical intervention, assistance with mobility (including hoisting), feeding support, and other specialised care needs that require nursing expertise.
Nursing care is typically needed when you require regular medical intervention or monitoring by qualified nurses. This might include needs such as regular injections (which carers cannot administer), complex wound care, catheter management, or if you have significant mobility issues requiring hoisting. Our Registered Manager will conduct a comprehensive assessment to determine the most appropriate level of care for your specific needs.
Funded Nursing Care (FNC) is a weekly contribution paid directly to care homes by the NHS for residents assessed as requiring nursing care. We apply for this funding on behalf of all eligible residents when they move in. Importantly, if awarded, this contribution comes directly off your weekly bill – a practice that many other homes don’t follow. This demonstrates our commitment to ensuring our residents receive all the financial support they’re entitled to.
Our nursing homes maintain a higher staff-to-resident ratio than our residential homes. This ensures that residents with more complex needs receive prompt and appropriate care. The specific ratio is based on residents’ dependency scoring, ensuring sufficient numbers of qualified staff to meet and exceed residents’ needs at all times, day or night.
Yes, our nursing homes have qualified nurses on duty 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. This ensures that professional nursing care is always available whenever it’s needed, providing peace of mind for residents and their families.
Our Registered Manager will conduct a comprehensive pre-admission medical assessment to ensure that your home is suitable for your nursing needs. This assessment takes into account all aspects of your health and care requirements to ensure we can provide appropriate support.
Residents are always at the forefront of all care planning and they can choose how actively involved their loved ones are.
All the nursing team at our Society work closely together and are collectively responsible for your care. However, each resident has a designated nurse, care plan coordinator, and a key worker to oversee your care. This team approach ensures continuity and comprehensive care tailored to your individual needs.
Our nursing wing has a retained GP, but residents can choose which GP surgery in the area they wish to register with or retain their current GP if they are local to the area. Our nursing staff work closely with GPs to ensure optimal healthcare management.
Residents can request to see a GP whenever they wish to. Our nursing staff, residents, and families will always work closely together to ensure health and well-being is regularly monitored and reviewed. Our qualified nurses can also conduct many health assessments directly.
Our qualified nursing staff handle all medication management, including administration of medicines that require nursing expertise such as injections, which care assistants are not permitted to administer. We maintain comprehensive medication records and regularly review medication plans in collaboration with doctors and pharmacists.
The nursing team will discuss any changing needs with you and your loved ones in advance. AWVS has the facilities and skilled nursing teams to adapt care levels throughout your care journey with minimal disruption. Our nursing homes are equipped to handle a wide range of care needs as they evolve.
In most cases our chefs can provide nutritious home cooked meals daily and offer a variety of dietary options such as low sugar, soft diets, vegetarian or gluten free.
If you require hospital treatment, our nursing staff will coordinate with emergency services or hospital transfers as needed. A member of our team will accompany you to ensure important information is communicated to hospital staff. We’ll keep your designated contacts informed and maintain your room for your return.
All our nursing homes are specifically designed to accommodate residents with mobility challenges. Rooms and bathrooms are equipped with appropriate aids, and communal areas are accessible for those using wheelchairs or other mobility equipment. All homes have a full-time team of housekeeping staff keeping all areas clean and fresh at a comfortable temperature.
Our nursing homes are equipped with a range of specialist equipment including hoists, specialized beds, pressure-relieving mattresses, mobility aids, and other nursing equipment to meet various care needs. Our nursing staff are fully trained in the use of all equipment to ensure safe and effective care.
Yes, all our nurses are registered with the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and have appropriate nursing qualifications. Many have additional specialized training in areas such as dementia care, palliative care, wound management, and other relevant skills. All nursing staff complete regular professional development to maintain and enhance their expertise.
Our nursing teams are experienced in providing compassionate, dignified end-of-life care. We work closely with GPs, palliative care specialists, and hospice teams when appropriate to ensure comfort and pain management. Emotional support is provided for both residents and their families during this time, with care plans reflecting residents’ expressed wishes.
We actively encourage family and friends to visit the homes any time and become a regular part of Abbeyfield life. If special government guidelines on visiting are in place for safety reasons, we will follow advised procedures ensuring everyone’s safety. Our nursing homes have comfortable areas where residents can spend quality time with visitors.
Professional nursing team available 24 hours a day
Higher staff-to-resident ratio ensuring prompt attention
FNC funding applied for on your behalf and deducted from your weekly bill
Comprehensive care for complex health needs
Specially equipped facilities for those with mobility challenges
Person-centered approach maintaining dignity and quality of life
Continuous care journey as needs evolve
Peace of mind for you and your loved ones
Our sheltered housing offers you the perfect balance of independence and support in your retirement years. You’ll enjoy the privacy and freedom of your own self-contained apartment while having the reassurance of staff nearby when needed.
Our thoughtfully designed accommodations provide comfortable, accessible living spaces that you can personalise to feel truly at home. Each apartment is self-contained, giving you your own private space while being part of our wider community.
This living arrangement allows you to maintain your autonomy and lifestyle, while eliminating the burdens of property maintenance and security concerns that can become increasingly challenging as you age. You’ll have fewer responsibilities and more time to enjoy your retirement whilst enjoying most meals freshly cooked for you.
The supportive community at Abbeyfield Wey Valley sheltered housing creates opportunities for meaningful social connections that enhance your wellbeing. You’ll find it easy to develop new friendships just by spending time in our communal areas.
Not at all. We respect your personal space and privacy – you choose when to participate and when to enjoy your own company. This balanced approach helps prevent isolation while respecting your independence, creating an environment where you can thrive socially on your own terms.
Our sheltered housing offers practical advantages that provide peace of mind for your future. These include:
Emergency call systems
Regular wellbeing checks
Two meals a day provided by the house manager
Staff nearby during the day
Yes, our flats are designed with accessibility in mind, featuring adaptations that accommodate changing mobility needs. We understand that requirements may change over time, and our accommodations are prepared for this.
Many residents find that making this move while still active allows them to settle comfortably into a vibrant environment. This means you can focus on enjoying your retirement years with confidence and security, free from worries about managing alone as your needs change.
Independence is a core value at Abbeyfield Wey Valley. Our sheltered housing is specifically designed to support your independent lifestyle while providing additional security and community benefits.
We provide two delicious and nutritious meals per day, typically lunch and dinner, prepared by our house manager. This not only ensures you’re eating well but also creates regular opportunities for socialising with other residents.
Breakfast ingredients are also included and are located in the communal kitchen for residents to access.
Security is a priority with us. Our properties feature secure entry systems, and the presence of staff and other residents creates a safe community environment where everyone looks out for each other.
We absolutely encourage visits from family and friends! Your apartment is your home, and guests are welcome. Many of our communal areas can also be used for entertaining visitors.
We’d be delighted to show you around our homes and introduce you to our community. Please contact us to arrange a visit or to discuss any questions you may have about making sheltered housing your new home.
Respite care is a short-term stay in one of our care homes, providing temporary relief for primary caregivers while ensuring the person receiving care continues to receive high-quality support in a safe and comfortable environment, or it can offer convalescence after a hospital procedure.
Our respite care is flexible, with a minimum stay of 1 week. After the first week, we offer pro rata daily rates, allowing stays for exactly the time you need, without unnecessary costs.
Yes, in some of our homes, respite care can be booked in advance. This gives current carers the peace of mind to plan holidays and breaks, knowing their loved one will be well cared for during their absence.
Respite residents receive the same high level of care and access to services as our permanent residents. This includes:
Absolutely! Respite care is the perfect way of “testing the water” to experience life in one of our homes. Many of our permanent residents started with a respite stay, which helped them make an informed decision about moving in permanently.
Contact our customer service line initially and our team can put you in touch with a Registered Manager who will conduct a pre-admission assessment to ensure we can meet your needs. We’ll discuss available dates, duration of stay, and any specific requirements you may have.
Yes, all respite residents have their own private room, just like our permanent residents. You’re encouraged to bring personal items to make your temporary space feel more like home.
For shorter respite stays, we recommend bringing personal items such as photographs, favourite blankets, and small mementos rather than furniture. However, we encourage you to make your space feel like home during your stay.
Our homes have secure entrance points, though residents are free to come and go. There’s a strict signing-in procedure, and all immediate grounds are covered by CCTV. Each room has its own call point that residents can ring 24 hours a day.
Yes, the gardens and outdoor spaces at our homes are well cared for and easily accessible. They can be enjoyed from indoor conservatories or from the patio areas within the gardens. Some of our residents enjoy gardening while others prefer to sit back and enjoy the lovely environment.
Many of our respite guests choose to become permanent residents after experiencing life in our homes. If this is something you’re considering, please speak with the Registered Manager of the home who will guide you through the process and check availability.
Our highly experienced and trained care professionals have knowledge of conditions, ensuring all your needs are expertly cared for. They will also liaise with doctors and other professionals regarding your ongoing care during your stay.
We actively encourage loved ones to visit our homes at any time and become a regular part of Abbeyfield life. If special government guidelines on visiting are in place for safety reasons, we will follow advised procedures ensuring your safety.
While we are not dementia specialists, we do welcome and successfully care for many people living with dementia. Everyone is assessed individually to ensure we can meet their specific needs. Our homes provide a stimulating environment where many people with early-onset or relatively mild dementia often flourish due to increased social interaction and engagement, which can help slow the progression of symptoms.
We can accommodate people with mild dementia symptoms. However, there are two main concerns we must carefully assess: wandering behaviours and any anti-social or aggressive behaviours. Since our homes are not secure locked units (unlike specialist dementia facilities), we need to ensure the safety of all residents and the suitability of our environment for each individual.
All our staff have training in dementia care which includes effective communication techniques, person-centred care approaches, and strategies to provide appropriate support and engagement. Our staff focus on maintaining dignity, independence, and quality of life for all residents, including those living with dementia.
The primary difference is in the physical environment and resident mix, not the quality of care. Unlike specialist dementia homes which are typically locked units designed for people with more advanced symptoms, our homes have an open design. We don’t have facilities to secure sections to prevent wandering, and our staff training doesn’t focus on handling physically aggressive behaviour as this is rarely needed in our setting. However, the actual care, attention, and support provided to residents is equally professional and compassionate.
Absolutely. Every resident receives individualised care based on their specific needs, preferences, and abilities. Residents with dementia are not treated differently but receive appropriate additional support when needed. Our person-centered approach ensures that each resident’s unique requirements are understood and met.
The team will discuss any changing needs with both the resident and their families in advance. We have the facilities and skilled teams to adapt care levels throughout a resident’s journey with minimal disruption. However, if symptoms progress to a point where specialist dementia care would be more appropriate, we would work with you and relevant healthcare professionals to find the most suitable solution.
Residents’ well-being is paramount to our philosophy of care. Our activities team interacts with residents daily on both a personal level and within organised group activities. Regular trips and social events are held to ensure a stimulating environment.
Yes, each home’s activities coordinator runs both group activities and one-to-one engagement sessions. Many of these are specifically designed to benefit residents with dementia, including reminiscence therapy, music sessions, sensory activities, and gentle exercise. These activities help maintain cognitive function and promote well-being.
We keep in touch with you using your preferred method of communication. The care team provides courtesy updates after GP visits or if there are any changes in condition. Our management team also contacts families monthly for a general chat. We recognise that open communication is especially important when supporting someone with dementia.
Residents are encouraged to make their space their home. As far as practically possible, they can bring furniture, pictures, ornaments and anything else that makes them feel at home in their own room. For residents with dementia, familiar items and photographs can be particularly beneficial in creating a sense of security and belonging.
Our homes have secure entrance points, though residents are free to come and go. There is a strict signing-in procedure and all immediate grounds are covered by CCTV. Each room has its own call bell and residents are provided with neck bells that they can ring 24 hours a day. For residents with dementia who may be at risk of disorientation, staff can provide additional monitoring and support.
Our trained staff use various techniques to calm and reassure residents who may become confused or agitated. This includes validation therapy, distraction techniques, and creating a calm environment. Staff focus on identifying triggers and preventing distress where possible. If a resident regularly displays behaviours that suggest they would benefit from a more specialised environment we would discuss this with their family.
Residents are encouraged to remain as independent as possible with staff always on hand for support. There are several house activities residents enjoy that promote gentle exercise. For residents with dementia, maintaining routine activities and independence is particularly important, and we provide the appropriate level of assistance while respecting dignity and autonomy.
Our teams work closely together and are collectively responsible for your care. However, each resident has a designated care plan coordinator and a key worker to oversee their care. This consistency is particularly beneficial for residents with dementia, as it helps build familiarity and trust.
Of course, our chefs provide nutritious home-cooked meals daily and can offer a variety of dietary options such as low sugar, soft diets, vegetarian or gluten free. For residents with dementia who may have specific preferences or difficulties with eating, we provide appropriate support and adapted meal options to ensure good nutrition.
It often takes time to settle into a new environment, especially for someone with dementia. Our staff work closely with new residents and their families to create familiar surroundings and establish comfortable routines. We gather detailed information about preferences, routines, life history, and interests to provide personalised care and help with the transition.
Our staff are trained in various communication techniques suitable for people with dementia, including non-verbal communication, simple clear instructions, visual cues, and allowing extra time for processing information. We learn each resident’s preferred communication style and adapt our approach accordingly.
Absolutely! Under normal operating circumstances, we encourage this. For residents with dementia, we may provide additional guidance to family members to ensure outings are enjoyable and safe.
Our trained staff handle all medication management for residents who need assistance. For residents with dementia, we take extra care to ensure medications are taken as prescribed and monitor for any side effects or changes in condition.
The Abbeyfield Wey Valley Society is registered with the Care Quality Commission (CQC).