
We're recruiting now...
VACANCIES – Full-Time and Part-Time
Our new retirement village Nonsuch Abbeyfield opened in January 2020.
We are recruiting for full-time, part-time and volunteer vacancies NOW.
As our new retirement village is nearing completion and we are preparing to welcome the first residents. We have a number of full-time and part-time vacancies to fill.
We are also extending our volunteer team to help cement new relationships between the village and the wider community.
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Full-Time and Part-Time

Catering Staff
Full and Part-Time
Catering Staff
We have various catering roles both for waiting staff and kitchen staff.
POSITION TYPE: Full and part-time, including weekends
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Experience in a similar role
- Excellent people skills
- Excellent time management skills and record keeping
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Full Time and Part-time
Full time chef – Chef job advert
Weekend Chef – Weekend chef advert
Front of house catering – FOH job advert
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to work with us
- what qualities you believe are important for this role and how you have demonstrated those qualities
- an indication of availability including number of hours and weekend working
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin
Maintenance Person
FOR
ABBEYFIELD SOUTHERN OAKS
5 Days in 7
Maintenance and Repairs
We are recruiting for a position as general maintenance person across our sheltered homes. Competetive Salary and Annual Leave Entitlement offered.
Tasks to include odd jobs, painting, changing light bulbs, erecting shelves and general maintenance.
POSITION TYPE: 5 days out of 7
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Demonstrable skills across carpentry, plumbing, electrics, general fixing and repairs.
- Able to drive
DESIRABLE:
HOURS: 10am to 4pm
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to work with us
- the maintenance categories in which you are particularly qualified or experienced
- an indication of your availability.
References:
Two references will be required.
Enhanced DBS check is required.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Cleaning
Part-Time
Cleaning
We are recruiting for several part-time positions for cleaning and upkeep of the common parts, club, cinema, fitness suite, arts studio and other shared amenities.
POSITION TYPE: Part-time
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Experience in a similar role
- Excellent people skills
- Excellent time management skills and record keeping
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Part-time
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to work with us
- an indication of your availability including weekend working.
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Reception and Front of House
PART-Time
Reception
Combined roles as front of house and welcoming new residents.
POSITION TYPE: Part-time / Job Share
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Experience in a similar role
- Excellent people skills
- Excellent time management skills and record keeping
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Part-time
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to work with us
- what qualities you believe are important for this role and how you have demonstrated those qualities
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Relief House Manager
Part-Time
Relief House Manager – Sheltered Housing
We are recruiting for two part-time relief house managers for our houses.
POSITION TYPE: Part-time
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Experience in a similar role
- Excellent people skills
- Excellent time management skills and record keeping
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Part-time
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to work with us
- an indication of your availability including weekend working.
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin
Maintenance Person
FOR
ABBEYFIELD SOUTHERN OAKS
5 Days in 7
Maintenance and Repairs
We are recruiting for a position as general maintenance person across our sheltered homes. Competetive Salary and Annual Leave Entitlement offered.
Tasks to include odd jobs, painting, changing light bulbs, erecting shelves and general maintenance.
POSITION TYPE: 5 days out of 7
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Demonstrable skills across carpentry, plumbing, electrics, general fixing and repairs.
- Able to drive
DESIRABLE:
HOURS: 10am to 4pm
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to work with us
- the maintenance categories in which you are particularly qualified or experienced
- an indication of your availability.
References:
Two references will be required.
Enhanced DBS check is required.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin
Volunteers

TRUSTEES
with finance experience
Trustees.
What could you bring to the board of a charity that is passionate about providing older people with supported independent living for companionship and social interaction to diminish the effects of loneliness and isolation?
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
Apply by: 3rd October 2022
COMMITMENT:
- Quarterly Board meetings
Quarterly Committee meetings (2-3 hours)
Trustees with the capacity to do so also have the opportunity to support occasional projects working with the CEO and wider leadership team. - UNPAID; Expenses covered in line with Policy
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Bar Manager
Volunteer
Bar Manager
At Nonsuch Abbeyfield we have a lovely Bar area which overlooks the Sports Field. There is an open terrace leading out from the area enabling residents and families to enjoy the views and beautiful weather. There is also a brand-new Pool Table installed. We do have a licence here which enables us to run the Bar. We now need a Volunteer/s to run side by side with TNS ( catering Company) and Joanne Taylor, Community Manager in opening up this area.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Excellent organisational skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement.
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- what you think are the most important attributes for this role and how you have demonstrated them
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

DRIVER
Volunteers
Drivers
We are seeking volunteers who are able to drive a mini bus, or the like. This role is paramount in ensuring that residents are able to get out and about, transporting residents from our other 4 houses, located within an 8-mile area, to Nonsuch and back. Possible day trips.
Days and times to be decided.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Excellent organisational skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement.
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- what you think are the most important attributes for this role and how you have demonstrated them
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Resident Liaison
Volunteers
Resident Liaison
We are looking for volunteers to act as liaison between residents and the administration team. This will be particularly important in welcoming new residents to the village and helping them to settle in and enjoy the wonderful facilities available..
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Excellent organisational skills
- Excellent interpersonal skills
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement.
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- what you think are the most important attributes for this role and how you have demonstrated them
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin
Gardening and garden Maintenance
Volunteers
Gardening and Garden Maintenance
We are looking for volunteers to maintain and develop the garden spaces around the retirement village. Equipment will be provided.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Experience of maintaining large spaces,
- A regular commitment,
- Knowledge and experience of plants and trees throughout the growing year
DESIRABLE: The capacity and creativity to develop garden areas in line with established design
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement. Weekly and seasonal.
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- which tasks and activities you are able to offer
- an indication of your availability
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Arts and Crafts
Volunteers
Arts and Crafts
We are looking for volunteers to teach and mentor art and crafts in our new art and craft studio. Our beautiful new studio is designed to cater for a range of activities from knitting and embroidery to painting and papier mache.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Demonstrable skills in two or three examples of arts and crafts,
- The ability to engage all levels of ability
DESIRABLE: Teaching experience
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement. Weekly classes.
How to Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- which crafts you would like to teach
- an indication of your availability, and
- a selection of images (max 10) of your own work.
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Fitness – Exercise Class
Volunteers
Fitness Suite
We are looking for volunteers to take fitness classes in our new fitness suite. Our fitness suite is designed to cater for a range of activities which encourage movement, flexibility and well-being. We are also interested in anyone who can teach nutrition tailored for older people.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Demonstrable skills in physical exercise e.g. yoga, dancing, balance, movement and stretching,
- The ability to engage all levels of ability
- Qualifications and insurance for taking classes
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement. Weekly classes.
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- which exercise categories you are qualified to teach
- an indication of your availability, and
- confirmation of insurance cover.
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Shop and front of house
Volunteers
Shop and Front of House
We are looking for volunteers for our shop and occasional cover for front of house. Previous retail/reception experience will be very helpful in working with our electronic payment and stock management system.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Familiarity with retail environment
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement.
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Club and Cinema
Volunteers
Club and Cinema
We are looking for volunteers for our club room and in-house cinema. Previous retail or serving experience will be very helpful in working with our electronic payment and stock management system.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
- Minimum age 18 years
- Excellent interpersonal skills
- Familiarity with retail environment
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement.
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin

Social, Games and Company
Volunteers
How To Apply:
- A short CV (max 2 pages),
- a letter describing
- why you would like to join our team of volunteers
- an indication of your availability including weekends
References: two references will be required. Enhanced DBS check.
Send by email
joanne.taylor@abbeyfieldsouthernoaks.org
for help phone 020 8394 0050 and ask for Jo or Martin
A Special Story
I became a resident in August 1998 and since then 2 Purley Knoll has been my home for 20 years, and I have seen the building enlarged with a beautiful garden and conservatory lovingly created, the Committee work tirelessly arranging fund raising events, garden parties, games and fitness routines.
Abbeyfield made a great fuss of me when I became 100 years old. Yes, I received my letter from the Queen. My birthday cards and pictures remained strung out across my wall for a year or more. It was nearly 20 years to the day
when I had to leave Abbeyfield, nearing 104, I was not able to live as independently or as safely as I could without extended support.
Abbeyfield retained my dignity and privacy and maintained in house companionship in equal measure. My weekly Church magazine brought to me by a Volunteer from the House Team kept me in-touch with my faith. These Abbeyfield years were most happy and many who knew me could and would pop in to see me, but the list gets shorter each year.
O.H Purley Resident 1998 – 2018.
News and Updates
Mayor of Epsom and Ewell unveils plaque
The Worshipful Mayor of Epsom and Ewell Peter O'Donovan unveils the plaque marking the opening of Nonsuch Abbeyfield. Beside him is the Mayoress Mrs Sarah O'Donovan. The event was attended by Andrea Mclean who cut the ribbon,...
Grand Opening of Nonsuch Abbeyfield
Nonsuch Abbeyfield was officially opened by local journalist and television presenter Andrea Mclean who cut the ribbon and Epsom & Ewell Mayor Peter O'Donovan who unveiled the plaque. Local MP Chris Grayling and members of the Abbeyfield trustees team were also...
My time at York Road
The best way to talk about my 11 years at York Road is to think of Family. Soon after arriving, it became clear that that is what Jean Thompson wanted. For most of the time, that is what we were. We were fortunate in that our fellow residents were all able to "get...
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
What is 'supported housing'?
Supported housing is for people who are still able to care for themselves and wish to remain independent. They most likely do not want the responsibilities of maintaining a house or flat or a garden but they are not ready to go into a care home. They may also like extra support for things like meals, cleaning and most of all they would like the company of others if they wish. Our supported housing offers that extra help: someone around to offer a bit of security in case they fall or feel unwell. Supported housing is not for people who need more dedicated care. Supported housing is offered at The Old House, Purley Knoll, York Road and Mulgrave Road.
What is 'independent living with extra care'?
Our new facilities at Nonsuch Abbeyfield will offer much greater support for different degrees of independence. We understand that people want to stay in their 'own home' for as long as possible and Nonsuch will offer a wider range of services so that people can stay independent for longer. There is a mix of leasehold and rented apartments which are arranged around a community hub.
You can see much more about the services on the Nonsuch Abbeyfield website.
Is it possible to stay for a while to see if I like it?
Yes! So often people are very reluctant to give up their own home and it takes time to adjust to the idea. We support potential residents and their families in helping with that transition. Staying with us is often the good experience that helps with the decision to become a permanent resident.
We have a four stage process:
1. A viewing of available rooms at the houses.
2. An invitation to lunch to meet the other residents.
3. Completion of our application form to ensure we are a good fit for each other. If you decide to proceed to the next stage, we can arrange a short stay.
4. If all goes well, we agree a date when you can move in.
Can residents have pets?
We do understand how important pets are to older people and we welcome visiting dogs at with their owners. Sadly, we are unable to cater for resident dogs or pets at the houses. Pets will be very welcome at the new development, Nonsuch Abbeyfield.
How often can residents have guests?
As often as they like. Friends and family can join residents for lunch or supper (a little notice is required). In summer the gardens are a glorious place to meet with friends over a cup of tea or a gin and tonic.
Is it possible to have a microwave?
Yes. Each room has a small kitchenette for the preparation of breakfast, drinks and snacks. Residents make their own breakfast which means they are free to choose their own time according to their personal routine.
What happens if I need an operation and some time recuperating?
If you need in-hospital medical treatment and you require extra help for a period, then we work with you and your family or sponsor to make arrangements for that extra care. We do not have facilities for full-time nursing over an extended period.
What other services are available?
Each house has a chiropodist and a hairdresser who visit regularly. Some residents like help with cleaning their own room.
Abbeyfield Southern Oaks requires all contractors, paid by them, to have appropriate insurance cover and a current DBS.
Residents or whoever pays for a service, other than by a Abbeyfield Southern Oaks contractor, for work inside their apartment/bedroom need to make their own safety checks that the person has appropriate insurance cover plus a current DBS certificate and inform the House & Operations Managers of the person’s details for fire and insurance purposes.
How much is the rent and charges?
The rental varies from house to house and room to room. There are a small number of rooms which are not en-suite and they attract a lower rental. There is a one-off charge which includes rent, services charges for maintaining and repairing the house, staff costs, 2 home-cooked meals each day, cleaning and care of the common parts, utilities and council tax. Residents cater for their own breakfast and drinks and each room has a small kitchenette. The only extra charge would be for your own phone line and for any additional care needs. For a full breakdown, please contact us.
How often is the rental increased?
A rent review takes place annually in March and is effective from 1 April in each year. However, if a resident joins the community part way through the year then their rent will not be reviewed until the following year's review. For example, if you join us in June 2019 then your rent will not be reviewed until 1 April 2021.
What kind of activities are available to residents?
There are so many activities organised both for and by the residents. It is an essential part of what we do to support social interaction to maintain good health, physically, emotionally and spiritually. Residents have frequent gatherings over coffee and tea, there are exercise classes, games and crafts, volunteers are regular visitors to help with new skills or assist with projects. There are frequent visits to other Abbeyfield homes, trips out to the coast or other places of interest, birthday parties, entertainers, the list goes on and we are always looking for new ideas to keep our lively residents on their toes.
How much interaction is there with the other houses?
There is already a good deal of interaction with other houses and this will become more frequent when the facilities at Nonsuch Abbeyfield are commissioned. Nonsuch is designed as a community hub with a full range of rooms and services including a cinema with comfortable seats, a spa, hairdresser, spaces for musical and craft activities and a restaurant.
What are the parking arrangements?
There is on-site parking at The Old House, Purley Knoll and Mulgrave Road and additional on-street parking at no charge. Purley Knoll also has pay and display. York House has on-street parking.
Can residents invite guests for meals?
Yes they can. We encourage residents to stay in touch with friends and family. Joining for lunch or supper is a very good way of sharing their life with friends. We ask for a little advance notice so we can make sure we cater for everyone!
How should I complain if there is a problem?
We have a very simple complaints procedure which you can download by clicking the link below. "Complaints Procedure"
About Us
Company information and regulation
Abbeyfield Southern Oaks is a not-for profit charity. We are both affiliated to The Abbeyfield Society and independent.
Registered Office: Nonsuch Abbeyfield, Old Schools Lane, Ewell, Surrey, KT17 1FL
Registered Charity Number: 247308
The company is Limited by Guarantee and registered in England and Wales: Registration number 734705
Housing Act Number: H1185
ICO Registration Number: ZA472736
Telephone: 020 8394 0050
Social, Games and Company
We are looking for volunteers to support our social activities, engage in games and conversation.
POSITION TYPE: Volunteer
START DATE: ASAP
ESSENTIAL:
DESIRABLE: Experience with older people
HOURS: Flexible and by agreement.