On 1 April 2026, two of the West Midlands’ most historic charitable organisations came together in a merger that reflects both deep roots and a forward‑looking vision. The union of Sir Josiah Mason Trust (SJMT) and the Yardley Great Trust Group bring together nearly a thousand years of charitable legacy, creating a stronger platform to meet modern social needs while safeguarding centuries of generosity.
Sir Josiah Mason Trust was formally established in 1868, but its charitable roots lie earlier still. Sir Josiah Mason, a Birmingham industrialist and philanthropist, believed deeply that secure housing and access to education were fundamental to human dignity. That belief continues to shape the Trust’s work today, not only through its own almshouse provision but also through its stewardship of other historic charities that share allied purposes, including Holy Trinity Heath Town Charity, Holte & Bracebridge Charity, Thomas Banks Almshouses and Oak Tree House Trust. Each has its own distinct history and charitable intent, yet all are united by a common commitment to providing secure homes, support and care for people in need.
The Yardley Great Trust Group was not the product of a single benefactor but the result of nearly 700 years of local generosity. Its earliest foundations date to 1355, when land was gifted to be held in trust for the benefit of the parish. Over succeeding centuries, numerous benefactors added almshouses, bread charities, clothing funds, schools and later housing for older people. These modest yet vital gifts sustained generations in the absence of any formal welfare system.
By the twentieth century, the Yardley charities had expanded into residential and nursing care, responding to changing patterns of need through organisations such as Colehaven, Grey Gables and Carrs Lane Homes. Though founded separately, each shared a commitment to secure, dignified homes and compassionate care. Gradually, these charities were brought together, forming the modern Yardley Great Trust Group, uniting historic endowments with contemporary governance.
The merger with Sir Josiah Mason Trust brings these traditions together under MY Trust (Mason Yardley Trust). Crucially, this is not a break from the past but a strengthening of it. The merger safeguards historic endowments, aligns charitable purposes and provides the resilience needed to meet modern regulatory, financial and service expectations.
Reflecting on the significance of the merger, David Healey, Chief Executive of MY Trust, says:
“This merger is about stewardship in its truest sense. Both Trusts and our linked charities were founded to ensure that generosity given in one generation could continue to support those in need centuries later. By coming together, we are protecting those legacies while creating an organisation strong enough to face the challenges of today and tomorrow.”
The new Trust stands as a living demonstration of continuity: medieval land gifts meeting modern housing standards; historic charitable provision aligned with contemporary care and support. It is proof that almshouses are not relics of the past, but enduring institutions capable of renewal, relevance and lasting social value when guided by principled governance and shared purpose.
Contributor: David Healey | Chief Executive of MY Trust
posted 6 May 2026