Recently, we celebrated our 60th anniversary with a landmark reception at Aerospace Bristol, bringing together residents, colleagues past and present, volunteers, and civic leaders beneath the wings of Concorde.

The special event honoured six decades of supporting older people across the region. Since our inception in 1966, we have supported hundreds of residents live independently while remaining connected to their local communities.

Guests enjoyed a traditional cream tea in the shadow of the supersonic Bristol icon, sharing memories and reflecting on the last 60 years. Residents from our four houses were at the centre of the event and were even invited aboard the iconic aircraft.

Above: A delicious cream tea set up underneath the wings of Concorde

Among the guests was Councillor Stephen Williams, Chair of the Public Health and Communities Committee for Westbury-on-Trym and Henleaze, who joined attendees in celebrating.

Councillor Williams, said: “I was delighted to join Abbeyfield to mark their 60^th anniversary and meet their trustees and some of their residents.  It was good to hear more about their current work to provide homes for older people to live in a shared building while maintaining independent and active lives.  I have visited one of their Bristol homes before and look forward to visiting again soon.  We need more accommodation for older people in Bristol who want to maintain their independence in a more suitable environment for their stage in life.  I look forward to Abbeyfield being part of our housing mix and support for older people for many more years to come.”

Above: Councillor Stephen Williams with Chair of the Board of Trustees Dr Hayley Richards, Trustees Louise Cuthbertson and Doug Wood, our CEO Adam Rees and Trustees James Murray and Rob Kinsman

For the trustees, the event was a proud moment to see first-hand the positive impact our Society continues to have on the lives of older people. 

Dr Hayley Richards, Chair of the Board of Trustees, said:

“Celebrating 60 years alongside our residents, staff and supporters was a wonderful reminder of the difference Abbeyfield makes every day. We are immensely proud to be part of an organisation with such a rich history and such a strong commitment to providing homes, community and independence for older people. Most importantly, we are proud to support our residents, who are at the heart of everything we do.”

As we celebrate this significant milestone, our Society remains focused on helping older people live independently, safely and happily for many years to come. The anniversary event was not only a celebration of the last 60 years, but also a celebration of the residents whose lives, experiences and communities continue to shape our future.

Above: Residents and guests celebrate 60 years of Abbeyfield Bristol & Keynsham under the wings of Concorde

CEO, Adam Rees, reflected on the milestone and celebration:

“While the landscape of social care and housing has changed significantly since 1966, our core purpose has never wavered. Bringing everyone together beneath Concorde was a celebration not just of our history, but of the vibrant communities our residents build every single day. We look forward to the next sixty years of friendship and supported living.”

As we look forward to the future we still remain dedicated to expanding opportunities for social connection, reducing isolation, and delivering supportive homes where older adults can flourish.

If you would like to talk to us about our houses and what Abbeyfield Bristol and Keynsham can offer you or a loved one call us on 0117 973 6997.