How Abbeyfield is structured

How we're structured: a global network with local services

At Abbeyfield, we believe in the power of community, and that extends beyond our individual houses. We're part of a vibrant international network known as the Abbeyfield Movement, allowing us to share best practices and ensure a consistent high standard of housing and care around the world.

Here's a closer look at our structure:

• Local focus, global reach: Abbeyfield is a membership organisation with houses in the UK and six other countries: Australia, Belgium, Canada, Jersey, South Africa, and New Zealand. This unique structure allows us to provide services tailored to local needs while leveraging the experience and resources of a global network. With over 450 houses worldwide, you're sure to find an Abbeyfield community that feels like home.
• United as the Abbeyfield Movement: All Abbeyfield societies, both in the UK and internationally, come together under the umbrella of the Abbeyfield Movement. This movement is guided by The Abbeyfield Society World Council.

Overarching governance structure resides with The Abbeyfield Society World Council, who have oversight of the Abbeyfield brand and the associated quality and regulatory compliance of each country within the wider membership organisation. Each Abbeyfield society has responsibility to adhere to their own country’s standards of quality and regulatory compliance. Each country holds an individual agreement with The Abbeyfield World Council and within England, each society has an agreement with the country body, Abbeyfield England.

Abbeyfield England

Established in 2022 following a restructure, Abbeyfield England plays an important role in supporting our Member Societies in England and Wales.

How we support our members:

• Supporting local governance: we offer guidance and resources to help our Member Societies maintain strong governance practices
• Ensuring high standards: we collaborate with Member Societies to ensure they consistently meet the high standards expected of Abbeyfield communities
• Championing their voice: we represent the needs and unify the best interests of our Member Societies at a national level.

This collaborative approach allows us to empower our Member Societies locally and have a unified voice for Abbeyfield across England and Wales. Find out more about Abbeyfield England.