Frequently Asked Questions

This section provides answers to the questions suggested by the Consumers Association 'Which?' - plus a few more! If there is anything else you would like to know, please get in touch with us, or arrange a visit to see for yourself.

Who can live at Abbeyfield’s Garrad House?
Our residents are men and women over the age of 55, who do not wish to live alone at home.  We give priority to applicants who come from the local community, or who have strong community ties. We welcome people from every walk of life, regardless of ethnic origin, gender, sexuality, class or religious beliefs.

How much does living in Garrad House cost?

Current charges (June 2011) are £966 per calendar month.  If you would like to stay for 2 week’s trial period, we are offering a special introductory rate of £125 per week.  All costs include food and utility bills. Low income is not a bar to coming to Abbeyfield.  You may be entitled to claim Income Support or Housing Benefit.  Speak to us, The Citizen’s Advice Bureau or The Benefits Agency office to find out your best options.  If you need help with paying fees, please apply to your local Social Services department.

Will you need to know my financial circumstances?
Abbeyfield will need to confirm that you’re able to afford the charges and will request that you sign an agreement to pay. We treat all personal information in the strictest of confidence.

Can married couples apply?
At present, Garrad House only caters for people living on their own. However, other Abbeyfield houses offer accommodation for married couples – please visit www.abbeyfield.com to find out more.

Will I receive daily meals?
The house manager provides two home-cooked nutritious meals daily.  Residents are responsible for preparing their own breakfast, but the house manager supplies everything needed. This means residents can choose to get up and eat breakfast when it suits them.

Will I have to share a bathroom and toilet?
No, each room has en-suite facilities – wash-basin and wet room (shower with seat, but no steps to climb over).

We also have a bathroom with a hoist for people who would like to use a bath, but who have difficulty getting in.  The bath can be used by any resident with the assistance of their carer.

Will my room be decorated and furnished?
All rooms are unfurnished, but usually come with a carpet and curtains. This allows you to bring your own choice of furniture and furnishings to your room.

Will I have to look after my own room?
Cleaning your room is your own responsibility, but you can engage domestic help at your own cost if you wish. The Social Services department may provide assistance.

Who will do my washing?

Residents are responsible for their own washing, and may choose to do this in our laundry room (with washing machine and tumble dryer); there is no charge for using these facilities.

Is smoking allowed?
All of our houses are no-smoking throughout.

Are the house rules strict?
We don’t have any rules other than those of common courtesy. Abbeyfield is your home.

Can I bring my pet?
Unfortunately pets are not allowed.

Will I have a telephone and television?
There is a large-screen television in the lounge which residents may choose to watch.  Each room has a phone socket for residents who wish to install a telephone at their own cost.  Residents may choose to bring a television for their own room, and we arrange for the TV licence at no cost to over 75's and only £7.50 to under 75's.

What happens if I become ill?
Minor illnesses can be managed within Abbeyfield houses.  Some of our residents are able to bring in paid care services whose costs are either covered privately or by Social Services.

If you become very frail, it may be advisable to move to an extra care home. 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.

Is Garrad House within easy access of the town centre and bus routes?
Garrad House is in the village of Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, quite near the shops for good walkers; local taxis, or lifts from friends, can also be used. Kings Langley is a pleasant village with a long history, nice shops and several social clubs; the performing arts societies are very active and parties of residents can be taken to matinees of the shows.

Kings Langley, Hertfordshire, is 2km from the mainline train station to London or the North, 2km from Junction 20 of the M25, making it easy for visitors to reach us. 

Can I have visitors?

Since this is your home, you choose when your visitors come to see you.  They are welcome to join you for a meal (for a small fee) or to stay overnight by arrangement in the guest room, or in the local area.

What activities can residents take part in?

You are welcome to come and go as you please. In addition, activities are organised by Garrad House  which you may choose to take part in.  Find out more here

What is a ‘sponsor’?
We ask our residents to nominate a trusted relative, friend or professional adviser to act as their ‘sponsor’ or representative. This is someone who can be contacted in case of an emergency. No financial involvement is required, just their continued interest and support.  Your sponsor helps ensure that your requirements are met; they liaise with the house on your behalf, which is especially important if and when you’re ill.

If I want to move out, how much notice will be required?
We ask for a minimum of one month’s notice if you want to leave, but would be glad of more notice if possible.

Can I move to a different room once I’m a resident?
Of course! If your old room no longer meets your needs, we can arrange for you to move to a more suitable room when it becomes available.

How do I apply to become an Abbeyfield resident?

Please contact us to request an application pack. We can then talk you through the application process.

Is there a residents' committee?

As the House is designed for only ten residents, we do not have a formal residents' committee, but we hold regular residents' meetings where issues are discussed.

How can I find out if Abbeyfield’s Garrad House would suit me?
Please feel free to visit us before making a decision. You are very welcome to talk to the house manager, residents and our volunteers to find out what life is like here. We also recommend that you arrange to stay with us for a  couple of weeks to help you decide if we are the right home for you.  We understand that this is a big decision, and are happy for you to take all the time you need before making up your mind.