our houses
Abbeyfield Southern Oaks Supported Living
We think that in your retirement, you should have the level of independence that’s appropriate for you, whilst everything is taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the social life, activities, interests and community involvement that you choose.
We have three charming traditional houses that offer supported living with peace, comfort and safety as well as nourishing home-cooked meals, companionship when you want it and the reassurance that property maintenance and day-to-day chores are taken care of efficiently and professionally.
our houses
Abbeyfield Southern Oaks Supported Living
We think that in your retirement, you should have the level of independence that’s appropriate for you, whilst everything is taken care of, leaving you free to enjoy the social life, activities, interests and community involvement that you choose.
We have three charming traditional houses that offer peace, comfort and safety as well as nourishing home-cooked meals, companionship when you want it and the reassurance that property maintenance and day-to-day chores are taken care of efficiently and professionally.
Is supported living right for you?
If you’d like to remain independent and are able to care for yourself but want to leave the burden of cooking, cleaning and maintenance in your home to someone else, supported living could well be the answer.
In the heart of our communities
Because our supported living properties are located in pleasant suburban surroundings within a short distance of shops, cafes, GP surgeries and other amenities, residents benefit from being part of their local community.
Proud of our place in the community
Our vision and values extend beyond the walls of our houses and ensure that we remain respected members of our local communities, not least through giving back by providing ample employment and volunteering opportunities.
It’s all included
*Please note that landline telephone and TV licence are not provided, but that the TV licence costs £74 a year for age 74 and under, and is free for people age 75 and over
resident testimonial
At first, living at Purley Knoll was quite challenging for me as I had previously lived alone for 42 years. I am extremely grateful to all my fellow residents and all the staff for making me feel so welcome since.
David Sedgewich
Resident of Purley Knoll
frequently asked questions
About our supported housing
What is it?
Supported living 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 Purley Knoll, York Road and Mulgrave Road.
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:
- A viewing of available rooms at the houses.
- An invitation to lunch to meet the other residents.
- 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.
- 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 with their owners. Sadly, we are unable to cater for resident dogs or pets at the houses.
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 an 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 April.
What are the parking arrangements?
There is on-site parking at 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.
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.
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 of course hope the need never arises, however, we have a simple and straightforward complaints procedure which is available on request