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What is Abbeyfield? 

About 400 voluntary organisations in the U.K. have the name Abbeyfield, members of a national Society.  They offers a solution to the problem of isolation in older age - houses where people can live together with care and companionship.  Abbeyfield houses are what are known as very sheltered housing where residents are reasonably fit and active.  No purchase is required and the rents are moderate

Many houses are managed in all respects by local volunteers.  Here, residents find privacy and security when  managing alone in their own home has become a burden.  They come and go as they please, receive visitors and enjoy two cooked meals a day, are free from the worries of maintaining a home and paying bills - and dealing with loneliness.

What residents say about Abbeyfield

"When I open the front door I have it all. Good friends to share a meal with, a room to call my own and the wonderful feeling that this, at last, is home."

"When I came here I found real care and concern - it's like having a family again."

"This isn’t just a home – it’s MY home”

"Leaving home can be very traumatic, but at Abbeyfield it's like taking your home with you and gaining some friends on the way"

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The Abbeyfield Oxford Society

• owns Brian Lewis House in St. Clements near the city centre
• is run by a board of local voluntary trustees
• provides very sheltered accommodation for nine residents
• offers residents the support of a resident House Manager, an Administrator and a network of local volunteers
• aims to provide ongoing care
• has installed aids and adaptations to make life easier for frailer residents

Brian Lewis House is like a resident's home

• each resident has a key and comes and goes at will
• each room is furnished with a resident's personal possessions.
• a resident remains independent and active
• if required, a resident can arrange for visiting services such as a chiropodist or care assistant

Who is eligible to be a resident?

• There is no upper age limit, but people below retirement age are rarely accepted.
• Couples are welcome if there are enough vacancies at any one time.
• We offer equal and fair access to all, regardless of gender, race, colour or religion.
• Low income is not of itself a bar - housing and other benefits can be utilised.
• We also offer respite care for short periods to people whose carers might welcome a break