Services

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The society will need to ask how you will meet the charges and will request you sign an occupancy agreement in which you undertake to pay for the services.  All personal information is always treated in the strictest confidence.  The society does not make detailed enquiries into your financial affairs. However, a committee member can assist you in claiming benefits, if you wish. 

Abbeyfield asks residents to nominate a trusted relative, friend or professional adviser to be a sponsor  or representative who can be contacted and consulted in case of emergency.  No financial involvement is required; it is the sponsor’s continuing interest and support that is important.  The role of the sponsor or advocate is to support you, ensure that your interests are met and to liaise on your behalf with the society in times of illness or if there is a problem. 

You would usually move into an unfurnished room, although it will have carpet and curtains.  This is to allow you to bring your own choice of furniture and furnishings to your room.  The room will be decorated to a high standard.  Top of page

Lunch and evening meal are provided.  Food and facilities are available for you to prepare your own breakfast and snacks when you wish.  Special diets can usually be accommodated.  Talk about your particular needs as soon as is convenient and certainly when you stay with us on a trial visit. Top of page

Yes.  Any care package you have in place can be continued in your new home - possibly with the same carers if you have been living locally.  Should your requirements change at any time, we can help you extend the care by liaising with local services. Top of page

Yes, in your room (but not in bed!). Common areas of the house are non smoking. 
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There are no rules other than those which ensure your safety and are of common courtesy to other people in the house.  Brian Lewis House is your home. Top of page

Unfortunately we cannot accommodate your pet but we can put you in touch with an organisation which will find it a good home.Top of page

There is a phone point and TV aerial point in each room.  A telephone would be installed at your own expense.  There is also a communal television.   Top of page

We have a thorough procedure which allows you time to get to know the house. This includes an arrangement for you to stay with us for a few days to see whether the house and its services are suitable. Top of page

Minor illnesses may be managed in house. Longer term frailty can be covered by buying in care services - privately or through Social Services Departments.  If you become very frail, it may be advisable to move to an Abbeyfield registered care home or one run by another organisation.  Should you require long-term nursing care, then other arrangements may have to be made in consultation with you, your sponsor, family or friends and the local health authority.  If you have to stay in hospital for any reason, you would normally come back to Brian Lewis House when you are well enough. If, however, your illness had seriously damaged your health, the hospital and the Society might need to do an assessment before your discharge to ensure that enough support can be given.Top of page

 If you become unable to look after yourself in your own room, you may need the additional care offered by Abbeyfield houses which are care homes providing 24-hour care and a wide range of support in specially designed (usually larger) houses .Top of page

An Abbeyfield house is a small household.  Each society has a responsibility to assess the needs of those who apply for its limited number of rooms. Inevitably some are selected, but not others. Full details of our selection procedure are available from the Administrator. Top of page

In principle there are no limits to the length of time a friend or relative can stay, subject to availability. The Administrator can advise on conditions and costs.  Top of page