Abbeyfield Voice Winter 24-25
Abbeyfield Voice Winter 24-25
Abbeyfield Voice Winter 24-25
All the Trimmings
In this issue, Abbeyfield residents, staff, volunteers, and friends came together to celebrate Christmas with festive events and activities. Special guests, themed entertainment, and sparkling decorations enhanced the festive spirit across the country. Notable achievements include successful campaigns, recognition by the Housing Ombudsman, and the honor of attending the Westminster Abbey Together at Christmas Royal Carol Service. These milestones reflect the ongoing commitment to enriching service provision and community engagement.
On 6th December 2024, representatives from Abbeyfield had the privilege of attending the Royal Carol Service at Westminster Abbey, continuing a tradition of royal support. The event aimed to acknowledge individuals who show empathy and kindness during challenging times. The Abbeyfield attendees included a resident, a volunteer, and staff members, each recognized for their exceptional contributions to their respective communities.
The Housing Ombudsman commended Abbeyfield Living Society for its exemplary handling of complaints, highlighting a positive complaint handling culture within the organization. The report noted the organization's outstanding performance and compared it favorably to similar landlords in England. This recognition underscores Abbeyfield's commitment to continuous improvement and quality service provision.
International Volunteer Day
International Volunteer Day provided an opportunity to celebrate Abbeyfield's rich heritage of volunteerism, dating back to its founding in 1956. Volunteers play a crucial role in supporting older people across Abbeyfield homes, embodying the values instilled by the organization's founder. The day serves as a reminder to recognize and appreciate the invaluable contributions made by volunteers in enhancing resident experiences and fostering a sense of community.
Abbeyfield Winnersh care home in Berkshire opened its summer house and garden to local charities, offering a space for meetings, support sessions, and events. This initiative aims to facilitate collaboration with other organizations supporting older people in the community. By sharing resources and facilities, Abbeyfield seeks to create mutually beneficial partnerships that enhance the well-being of older individuals in the area.
Update from Our Resident Engagement Manager
Justin O'Brien, Resident Engagement Manager at Abbeyfield Living Society, discussed recent developments, including the organization's membership in Tpas for enhanced resident engagement. Through the Abbeyfield Residents' Network on WhatsApp, residents can connect, share experiences, and support each other. The focus on resident feedback, whether compliments or complaints, underscores Abbeyfield's commitment to continuous improvement and responsiveness to residents' needs.
MPs showed their support for Starts at Home Day by visiting Abbeyfield sheltered housing schemes, recognizing the value of safe and secure housing for older individuals. These visits provided an opportunity for MPs to engage with residents, understand the challenges faced by housing providers, and advocate for continued support and investment in sheltered housing. Additionally, residents at Abbeyfield House in Bramhall reflected on their wartime memories on Remembrance Sunday, highlighting the importance of preserving personal histories and experiences.
