This June, St John’s Foundation in Bath were thrilled to gather for their annual Founders Day, an uplifting tradition that unites residents, trustees, staff, and friends of St John’s for an afternoon of joy, connection, and celebration.

With entertainment, delicious treats, and plenty of laughter, it was a truly memorable day as they honoured St John’s incredible 851-year legacy and the deep-rooted bond they share with the Bath community.

St John’s sent in these wonderful photos from the day, commenting,

“Founders Day is a moment to pause and reflect on our rich heritage, but it’s also a celebration of the present and a hopeful look toward the future. It encapsulates the spirit of who we are today: a warm, inclusive and compassionate community committed to helping people live well, with joy, purpose, and independence.

It was heartening to see everyone enjoying the day, swapping stories, sharing laughter, and creating new memories together. A heartfelt thank you goes to the Francis Hotel, whose generous donation of beautifully crafted cakes made our afternoon tea extra special. We’re also deeply grateful to everyone who helped make the day possible. Whether organising, setting up, or lending a hand on the day, your contributions brought the event to life.

A highlight of the afternoon was the surprise performance by the singing waiters. Their energy and charm lit up the crowd, inspiring smiles, laughter—and even a bit of dancing! Seeing our residents on their feet, swept up in the fun, was a joyful reminder of what Founders Day means to us all at St John’s.”

September 2025

July 2025 – Willie Hartley Russell, Chairman of The Almshouse Association, visited the Leander Almshouses in Manningtree, Essex, to mark their 100th anniversary.

Founded in 1925 by Isabella Sophia Leander, the charming trio of almshouses has served the community for a century. To commemorate the milestone, Willie planted a tree and cut the anniversary cake during the celebrations.

Top picture top (left to right): Willie Hartley Russell (Chairman, The Almshouse Association), Ruth Stocks (Mayor of Manningtree), Liz Dunnett (Deputy Mayor of Manningtree), and Mark Daniel (Chairman of the Trustees).

posted 26 August 2025

On Friday, 22 August 2025, Kay (Catherine) Simmonds, a resident of Bedford Morison and Cordery Almshouse Charity for 17 years, celebrated her 102nd birthday surrounded by family and fellow residents.

Kay is the charity’s oldest resident and was born in Ireland, before moving to England and dedicating 40 years of her life to nursing at Leavesden Hospital.

A new initiative by the Charity’s trustees, which involves annual visits to each resident, has uncovered remarkable personal stories like Kay’s. This has inspired the creation of a ‘Listening Project’ to record and preserve these memories, in collaboration with Watford Palace Theatre and Watford Girls Grammar School.

Kay’s special day included flowers donated by Mrs. Steven Eagell of Lilac and Willow, Battlers Farm, and a visit from Vice Chair of Trustees, Dr. Nigel Ineson

posted 26 August 2025

On Saturday 14th June, 81-year-old Carolyn Stevens, a resident at St John’s Foundation in Bath, took on the thrilling ‘Leap of Faith’ charity abseil, descending the iconic 160-foot Bath Abbey tower to raise vital funds for Genesis Trust, a local charity supporting homeless and vulnerable people in the city.

Carolyn has lived at St John’s Foundation for 12 years and is no stranger to adventure.

“Two years ago, I planned to do a zip wire for my birthday with U3A, but had to cancel due to illness,” she said. “When I saw the charity abseil advertised, I jumped at the chance!”

For Carolyn, the challenge was about more than ticking off a bucket-list item, it was a chance to give back.

“We’re doing this for a brilliant local charity. It gives me the opportunity to support the community that’s supported me.”

Having climbed the 212 steps to the top of Bath Abbey before, she knew what awaited her.

“For me, it wasn’t the descent I was worried about, it was the climb up!” she joked.

After completing the abseil, despite a torrential downpour, Carolyn summed up the experience:

“Exciting, terrifying and very, very wet!”

Despite a torrential downpour, Carolyn successfully completed the abseil, and her enthusiasm proved infectious. Her initial idea inspired two St John’s colleagues, both over 50, to join the challenge. Together, the trio raised over £2,000 for Genesis Trust.

St John’s Head of Good Living, Lynn Toman, was one of them. “Carolyn’s idea grew into something really special,” she said. “Her abseil is a true example of ageing without limits.”

The third participant, Cindy Durant, Good Living Advisor, added: “Genesis Trust does incredible work supporting vulnerable people. Being part of this fundraiser was my way of standing behind that mission.”

The event reflected the spirit of courage, community and generosity that St John’s Foundation encourages in all its residents and staff.

Funds raised will support Genesis Trust’s work helping people in crisis build brighter futures, while also contributing to the care and preservation of Bath Abbey, a treasured Christian landmark in the city.

St John’s Foundation works to support older adults across the BaNES area in leading happy, healthy, and independent lives without limitations. To learn more, visit: www.stjohnsbath.org.uk

posted 28 July 2025

July 2025 Cutbush and Corrall Charity, Maidstone, Kent

There was a sense of excitement and community spirit in the air as residents of College Walk, Maidstone, came together to celebrate the unveiling of two newly refurbished one-bedroom bungalows. Once a single two-bedroom property that proved too large and hard to heat for its mostly single occupants, the home has now been thoughtfully transformed to better serve the needs of future residents.

Thanks to the efforts of the Cutbush and Corrall Charity and close collaboration with architects and planners, the redesigned bungalows now feature modern comforts such as energy-efficient underfloor heating, solar panels, and spacious open-plan kitchen/diner/living areas. A large, accessible bathroom in each unit ensures ease of use for those with mobility needs.

The stylish, updated design was warmly welcomed by residents, staff and trustees alike.

Operations Manager David Jonker and Clerk and Chief Officer Liz Abi-Aad have spent the past year overseeing the project, working tirelessly to create warm, light-filled, and welcoming new homes.

This month, both bungalows will become homes to new residents, marking a fresh chapter in a space designed with care and community at its core.

posted 28 July 2025

July 2025 Garden Party brings joy to all

The tranquil gardens of the Chubbs Almshouses in Crewkerne were filled with laughter, music and sunshine this July as residents and trustees came together for a joyful summer celebration.

Organised by the trustees of the Chubbs Almshouse Charity, the garden party was a heartwarming display of community spirit and togetherness. Attendees enjoyed classic fish and chips accompanied by a glass (or two) of wine, creating a relaxed and happy atmosphere.

Adding to the charm of the day was live guitar music, which provided the perfect soundtrack to the gathering. The sound of strumming strings mingled with happy chatter as everyone relaxed in the sunshine.

Pip the dog was also in attendance, eagerly making rounds to greet everyone and adding a touch of furry fun to the afternoon.

The event was more than just a party – it was a celebration of community, friendship and the joy of summer. The trustees shared a collection of wonderful photos capturing the smiles, shared stories, and special moments of the day.

It’s clear that the Chubbs Almshouse garden party was a great success, leaving everyone with warm memories and a strong sense of connection.

photo credit: Jeff Hutson

posted 22 July 2025