Monday 9th March 2026
The Way We Live
Alexandra Davis
Housing which is more than a home
Pilgrims’ Friend Society has been providing sanctuary for older people for around 200 years. Today, alongside our care homes, we run nine independent living housing schemes across England and Scotland. They come in all shapes and sizes – purpose-built one and two bed apartments, one-bed bungalows, studio flats – but they have at least one thing in common: they are communities where older Christians can live well together.
Over the last year, our housing team have been developing The Way We Live which is a framework for understanding Pilgrims’ Friend Society’s approach to housing. Rooted in our Christian faith, it reflects our values of compassion, community, transparency and excellence, making sure that buildings we provide are more than just places to live but also communities where Christian life and fellowship can flourish.
The housing team pulled out eight foundational principles, inspired by the Bible, which underpin life and community in our housing schemes.
We take a holistic view of the person
We provide more than housing — we foster spiritual, emotional, and relational wellbeing. Each resident’s life and faith journey is respected and, where welcomed, shared. Inspired by Genesis 1:27, we recognise each person as made in God’s image, deserving of holistic care and dignity.
We create community by design
We were made for relationship (Psalm 68:6). Our schemes function as interdependent communities, where residents support each other and belong, no matter the season of life.
We believe in purpose in all seasons
Every person, regardless of age, has a God-given purpose (Ephesians 2:10). We encourage those who live with us to continue contributing to community life and inspire others by their presence and wisdom.
We celebrate a diversity of gifts
Like the Body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:14), each person brings unique strengths. Residents are invited to encourage staff and one another, fostering mutual care and prayerful support.
We build life-long relationships
We support ongoing connection and friendship, recognising the loss that often comes with ageing. Hebrews 10:24–25 ‘Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.’ Hebrews 10:24 encourages us to keep meeting, loving, and uplifting one another.
magazine
To receive your copy of the magazine FREE four times a year, sign up now.
We honour each voice
We listen carefully to those who live with us and involve them in decision-making, even as needs change. Respect and partnership underpin our support.
We value contribution over capability
Psalm 92:14 reminds us that older people still bear fruit. Everyone is encouraged to participate in life and share their story, passions, and faith.
We are unique, God-created individuals
Every person who lives with us is “fearfully and wonderfully made” (Psalm 139:14). We honour the intrinsic worth of each person and celebrate their individuality.
The Way We Live in practice
So, what could you expect from one of our housing schemes?
Tea and cake – and lots of it! Regular times together for those who want to meet with others are regularly fuelled by coffee, tea, cake and biscuits.
A battered Bible. Time spent together is regularly done around sharing God’s Word together.
All kinds of festivities. As much of life’s rhythm dances around celebrations such as Easter and Christmas, our communities enjoy marking these important times together.
‘Let us consider how we may spur one another on toward love and good deeds.’ Hebrews 10:24
Your own space. If all of the above sounds like far too much, you’ll get your own front door to close exactly as and when you like.
Prayer and pastoral support. The value of living in community often deepens when times get tough, so prayer groups and partnerships and visits from staff or church leaders become even more important.
Access (almost) all areas. Our buildings are managed and maintained with reduced mobility in mind so you should be able to get where you need to go without trouble (but maybe not the boiler room).
Reading material. We prioritise good communications so there’s usually a newsletter to read, a noticeboard to peruse or social media to explore – and there’s always this magazine!
Please pray:
That those living in our housing would be blessed by the community around them.
More about Pilgrims' Friend Society...
Two care homes to join Pilgrims’ Friend Society family
Furze Hill House and Villa Adastra care homes to join Pilgrims' Friend Society
Going for growth
Our Growth and Renewal Programme is strengthening and modernising our mission to deliver Christian care for the future