Helping a housing charity modernise its governance arrangements

The Abbeyfield Society wanted to change how their organisation worked, so they asked us to step in and create a new structure.

When the Regulator of Social Housing raised concerns around their structure, The Abbeyfield Society knew it was time to reassess how the organisation functioned and how they could best focus on providing care and accommodation for older people, as well as supporting their membership societies in the UK and beyond.

Acting as a membership federation, and at the same time looking after lots of homes for older and vulnerable residents, meant that the Abbeyfield Society was constantly being pulled in different directions. With many local membership societies typically running one house with 12 to 15 residents, and reliant on the society for services, there were important questions to address around whether the Abbeyfield Society saw itself as a membership organisation or a housing provider.

Creating a new structure

With a recommendation to separate the two parts of their charity, they asked us to help create two new organisations. First, a new membership body for local Abbeyfield societies in this country – Abbeyfield England. Secondly, the Abbeyfield World Council, who would be responsible for the brand worldwide.

We helped with the entire process, from drafting documents to deciding the new structure and addressing issues encountered along the way. Some members expressed legitimate concerns, so we had to advise on the issues that they raised and take them into account while moving forward.

Perfectly placed

Anthony Collins (AC) was uniquely well-placed to take on this challenge. We have extensive expertise in social housing, meaning we understand the regulator’s concerns and the challenges housing associations are currently facing. Our team also undertakes a lot of work for large membership organisations that harnesses the value of wider ownership arrangements.

Our expertise in governance was also key to the success of this work. We were able to advise on everything involved in setting up the organisations and registering with the Charity Commission, as well as helping advise who is best placed to make decisions and how to distribute decision-making across the organisations.

“Abbeyfield can now concentrate on its residents’ needs and act as a landlord. Members are now supported by Abbeyfield England which has its own board, and can focus on taking matters forward for local Abbeyfield societies.”
David Alcock, partner, Anthony Collins