Part of our History
Almshouses have existed for over 1000 years enabling people in need to retain their independence and to live in their local community.

When did they start?
The first recorded Almshouse was founded by King Athelstan in York in the 10th century AD. The oldest charity still in existence is thought to be the Hospital of St. Oswald in Worcester, founded circa 990.

Who owns Almshouses?
Each Almshouse Charity is independent and run by voluntary trustees.

What are their aims?
To provide independent living for needy people, mostly elderly, with a high standard of affordable housing in their community.

How many people do they help?
There are almost 1800 separate Almshouse Charities in the UK with 2,600 groups of Almshouses.

Over 30,000 Almshouse dwellings provide accommodation for some 36,000 people.

The support and help they provide is just as important today, in the 21st century, as it was over 1000 years ago.

Patron
HRH The Prince of Wales

The Executive Committee
(Trustees and Area Representatives)

Twenty Five Trustees, representing geographic areas of the UK, form an Executive Committee who administer the Association's business through a small employed staff group entitled The Secretariat

Official Links: