75th Anniversary - Members stories | The Almshouse Association

Members Day 2025 – a spectacular celebration

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make Members Day 2025 such a memorable and meaningful event! We are especially grateful to our generous sponsors – Charity Bank, CCLA, M&G and HCR Law, without whom the day simply wouldn’t have been possible.

With the mercury soaring to 31°C outside, the atmosphere inside was even warmer – full of energy, ideas and shared purpose.

A day of connection, inspiration and celebration

The day began with coffee, cakes, and a buzzing room full of conversation. It was a joy to reconnect with long-standing members, welcome new faces, and finally put names to faces in person.

Annual General Meeting and opening address

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association, officially opened our 74th Annual General Meeting, setting the tone with a welcome that underscored our mission and the power of community. Outgoing treasurer Simon Ling took everyone through the numbers and voting took place on the financial accounts, re-election of trustees and election of new trustees and reappointment of our auditors (minutes of the 74^th AGM will be posted shortly).

We also said goodbye to some amazing contributors to the almshouse movement

Margaret Stewart stepped down from The Almshouse Association board of trustees after 21 years

Simon Ling stepped down as Honorary Treasurer after 8 years

Tricia Scouller stepped down as Chair of the Leonard Hackett Memorial Trust

An inspiring lineup

We were honoured to welcome a distinguished group of speakers who brought fresh insights and thought-provoking ideas:

**Paul Excell | Court Assistant, The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists**
*Artificial Intelligence and its role in shaping the future of charities*

**David Holdsworth | CEO, The Charity Commission**
*A critical look at the Charity Commission’s strategy and the current challenges facing the almshouse movement.*

**Jeremy Porteus | CEO, Housing LIN**
*Exploring the future of housing through the lens of community wellbeing and the Good Neighbours model.*

**Nick Phillips | CEO, The Almshouse Association**
*Presented ‘The Exemplar Model – Knowing Our Place’ as a blueprint for future development.*

**Panel Q&A with Association Consultants**
*An open and engaging discussion with expert insight on key member questions.*

**Willie Hartley Russell | Chairman, The Almshouse Association**
*Shared ‘The Way Ahead’, outlining a clear and passionate vision for our future, including a sneak preview of The Almshouse Association’s new coat of arms!*

A particularly special moment was the introduction of Brother John of The Hospital of St Cross almshouses, who shared his incredible journey travelling the entire UK by bus, raising both funds for his almshouse charity and awareness of almshouses nationwide.

Celebrating Excellence – The Almshouse Association 2025 Awards

We were thrilled to present the 2025 Almshouse Association Awards, recognising our outstanding member achievements, and were delighted to welcome our award winners onto the stage to receive their Awards. [Watch out for full details on their projects will be posted on our website shortly]

Gardens and People Award Winners

Innovation for Living Award Winners

Inspirational Homes Award Winners

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse Charity

…and The Almshouse Association Community Award went to The Charterhouse in London – a special recognition for meaningful local impact

Simon Pott, Chair of the Awards Panel, commended all our Award winners for their outstanding dedication and hard work.

He also emphasised that every one of our members is a winner, recognising their unwavering commitment to providing warm, safe, and welcoming homes for those in need within their local communities.

Congratulations to you all!

Looking to the future

We were deeply moved by George Courtauld, Director of Courtauld and Co. Ltd, who delivered a heartfelt speech as part of our Tomorrow’s Philanthropists programme, reminding us all of the essential human need for a place to call home.

The day concluded with a compassionate talk by Penny Smith – journalist, presenter, and newsreader – on Ageing Well: The Role of Friends, Neighbours and Community.

We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us, spoke, contributed, supported and inspired. Members Day 2025 captured the spirit of the almshouse movement at its very best – a community rooted in history and ready for the future.

Photography by Richard Gray

posted 26 June 2025

Brother John completes his epic trip

85-Year-Old ‘Brother on a Bus’ returns from his UK-Wide Public Transport Challenge

WINCHESTER, UK – On 1st May 2025, John Seager Green, a vibrant 85-year-old resident of The Hospital of St Cross and The Almshouse of Noble Poverty, set out on an extraordinary 43-day journey across the UK – using Stagecoach Buses and other bus service providers.

The journey, known as “BOB – Brother on a Bus”, https://hospitalofstcross.co.uk/brother-on-a-bus/ covered 31 cities and towns across England, Scotland, and Wales, with the aim of shining a spotlight on the modern role of almshouses – Britain’s oldest form of charitable housing.

Clad in a traditional black cloak and cross, ‘Brother’ John was determined to challenge stereotypes around ageing, showcase the spirit of almshouse life, and connect with people from all walks of life.

“This is more than a journey; it’s a celebration of resilience, community, and gratitude,” said John.

“After finding belonging at St Cross during a tough time, I want to show others that it’s never too late to find purpose – or to take a leap.

Almshouses not only provide a home – they provide a life. “I hope to show people that almshouses are not just places to live, but places to thrive. And at 85, I want to prove it’s never too late for an adventure! I also want to make people aware of what a splendid place The Hospital is to live in – not only a beautiful space, but one with a vibrant, sociable community, a wonderful retirement home for a man over 65.

As we are also nearing the 900^th anniversary of the foundation, (that’s 900 years of continuous public service, something of which very few other institutions can equal), I want to help raise funds to preserve out 12th Century Chapel – “a miniature Cathedral”, according to Pevsner*.”

Now an active teacher of bookbinding and well-known for his sociable spirit and culinary flair, John brings not only a wealth of life experience but a refreshing sense of curiosity.

Louise Wood, Deputy Clerk for The Hospital of St Cross says: “John is a formidable powerpack of ideas and ventures for The Hospital of St Cross; driven by a passion to promote our almshouse accommodation, our beautiful site, and put us squarely on the national map. By embarking on this ambitious circumnavigation of the UK, John hopes to raise funds for our Charity and highlight the Hospital’s approaching 900-year anniversary for 2032. We all wish him all the luck with his adventure, and we will keep a close eye on him throughout the whole trip.”

With Stagecoach and other bus service providers supporting his travel, the project highlights sustainable transport, intergenerational connection, and the power of storytelling.

“John’s journey is a wonderful testament to the power of public transport in connecting people, places, and communities, “we’re proud to be part of John’s inspiring adventure and to help shine a light on the importance of sustainable travel, independent living, and community spirit across the UK. Stagecoach buses are at the heart of local life, and we’re thrilled to support John as he proves that age is no barrier to discovery, connection, and making memories. We’ll be cheering him on every mile of the way.”

Mark Jackson, Operations Manager at Stagecoach South

“We are absolutely delighted to champion John on his remarkable journey. Almshouses represent the oldest form of charitable housing, offering not just shelter, but a true sense of home, companionship, and community. In a world where loneliness and isolation are increasingly widespread, almshouses provide a solution. Many of our nation’s most beautiful and historic buildings are also almshouses, and The Hospital of St Cross stands as a particularly stunning example. We wish John safe travels, new friendships and wonderful adventures! We will be sending him our encouragement and support every step of the way.”

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association

Throughout the trip, John recorded reflections on his journey, met with locals and stayed in historic almshouses and returned to Winchester on 12th June.

1 MAY 2025

Before setting off, John spared The Almshouse Association a few minutes for a quick interview with Nick Phillips, Association CEO to tell us what inspired him.

And he’s off!

St John’s Foundation, Bath: We’ve still got it!

St John’s Foundation in Bath has shared a wonderful video they’ve had put together celebrating their residents.

In 90 short seconds they have been able to capture their personalities and demonstrate how being older doesn’t mean you live a less active, less fulfilling life – in fact, quite the opposite! There’s also the added bonus of potentially adding 7.5 years to your life!

Click below to view:

posted 10 June 2025

Historic Derbyshire almshouse secures Section 106 funding

CASE STUDY: Preserving heritage, embracing sustainability: How a 16th-Century Derbyshire almshouse charity secured Section 106 funding and modernised for a low-carbon future.

Overview

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse in Derbyshire, a Grade-listed building with over four centuries of history, recently underwent a transformative refurbishment to preserve its legacy while aligning with contemporary energy efficiency standards. Spearheaded by The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse Charity, the project secured £400,000 through Section 106 funding to revitalise the building’s four flats and future-proof its infrastructure with cutting-edge, sustainable technologies. The securing of Section 106 funding is particularly noteworthy, as almshouse charities that are not registered providers often face significant challenges in accessing these funds.

Background

Built over 440 years ago, the almshouse has served the local community for generations. Despite its historical significance, it fell into serious disrepair by the mid-20th century. In 1958, Derbyshire authorities deemed it unfit for public investment. Sporadic maintenance continued for decades until the charity’s trustees, recognising the need for a complete overhaul, approached Derbyshire Dales District Council in 2022 to initiate a comprehensive renovation.

The vision: to transform the building into a model of low-carbon, affordable housing—while honouring its historical character.

Securing the Funding

Initial discussions with the District Authority began in early 2022, presenting both the pressing need for affordable housing in the region and the unique opportunity to restore a heritage asset. In December 2023, this culminated in a £400,000 grant awarded through Section 106 funds, with key backing from Rob Cogings, Director of Housing at the District Council.

“The Council is pleased to have worked in partnership with the almshouse charity to secure the long-term future of the four flats and significantly improve the energy efficiency of the homes,” said Cogings.
“It is great to see these historic homes given a new lease of life.”

To support the bid, the Council also funded extensive expert consultations—from heritage specialists to building engineers—and appointed an architect to oversee the works, ensuring compliance with conservation standards while enabling modern upgrades.

The renovation process

Construction Phase Launch:
Work began in December 2023, guided by a detailed project plan and pre-agreed contracts. Key milestones included:

Thermal efficiency upgrades: Original internal plaster was removed from exterior walls and replaced with high-performance insulating plaster. Despite cold and damp conditions, residents noticed immediate warmth.
Air source heat pump installation: A new, low-carbon heating system was introduced using an air source heat pump, with individual immersion heaters in each flat for hot water needs.
Ventilation an heat recovery systems: Each flat received an independent mechanical ventilation and heat recovery unit to retain heat while managing airflow.
Double glazing: All windows were replaced with modern double-glazed units to eliminate draughts and improve thermal performance.
Interior modernisation: New kitchens and bathrooms were fitted to improve residents’ comfort and quality of life.

While conservation restrictions prevented the installation of solar panels, the overall energy transformation was significant.

Impact and outcomes

A post-renovation energy performance evaluation revealed remarkable improvements:

CO₂ Emissions Reduction: From 5.5 tonnes to 0.5 tonnes per flat per year – a 90% reduction.
Affordability: Heating costs for residents have dropped to manageable, affordable levels, supporting the building’s social mission.

Key lessons learned

Expert advice is invaluable
Engaging specialists—heritage experts, engineers, and architects—was crucial to ensuring compliance, innovation, and long-term resilience.
Local Authority collaboration is key
Active support and co-operation from planning authorities smoothed the path for approvals, funding, and project momentum.
Heat pump installation requires flexibility
Adapting space to house modern energy systems may require compromises—but the benefits in carbon savings are considerable.
Resident adaptation must be supported
Living in a well-insulated, airtight environment requires adjustment. Providing residents with education and ongoing support was essential.

Conclusion

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse project stands as a blueprint for balancing historic preservation with modern sustainability.

Thanks to thoughtful planning, collaborative governance, and strategic investment, this 16th-century institution is now poised to serve future generations—comfortably, affordably, and sustainably.

The legacy of Anthony Gell and Anthony Bunting lives on – not only in bricks and mortar, but in a forward-thinking vision of heritage housing reimagined for the 21st century.

posted 5 June 2025

Preparations for new almshouses begin

A Legacy Reimagined: New almshouses rise from the heart of Budleigh’s Historic ‘Shandford’

In a world where small acts of kindness often ripple into life-changing legacies, Budleigh Salterton is about to witness one of its most heartwarming transformations.

It began in 1957, when a group of compassionate townsfolk shared a simple, beautiful idea: to create a haven for “the peace and comforting of old friends” – a sanctuary for older residents in need of care, companionship, and dignity. They purchased a modest guest house at 31 Station Road, and with vision and heart, turned it into ‘Shandford’: a home not just in name, but in spirit.

For over half a century, ‘Shandford’ was the beating heart of the community. More than a care home, it was a place where love, laughter, and friendship filled every corner. Overseen by a remarkable committee of local volunteers, neighbours became family – shopping for residents, organising joyous outings, hosting fetes and fundraisers, and offering a constant reminder that no one in Budleigh need grow old alone.

But as times changed and challenges mounted, Shandford’s future became uncertain. In 2014, the torch passed to The Abbeyfield Society, a respected charity for older people. Yet despite heartfelt efforts, the pressures of modern care provision proved too great, and in 2020, ‘Shandford’ quietly closed its doors. For many, it felt like the end of an era.

But it wasn’t the end. It was the beginning of something new.

In true Budleigh spirit, the community rallied once more. In October 2020, a determined group of residents came together to form The Shandford Trust, vowing that the kindness and care that defined ‘Shandford’ would not be lost to history. With courage and commitment, they ensured that the proceeds from the sale of the home would remain rooted in Budleigh Salterton, dedicated to supporting older people in the place they call home.

Today, that promise is blossoming into something extraordinary.

The Shandford Trust has secured a site in the heart of Budleigh, gained planning permission, and begun preparations for three brand-new almshouses — safe, welcoming homes for older residents in need. More than bricks and mortar, these homes will be a symbol of enduring compassion, built on the same values that inspired a group of neighbours nearly seven decades ago.

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association said: “This is a pivotal moment for the almshouse movement — one of the UK’s oldest forms of charitable housing. For over 1,000 years, almshouses have provided affordable homes rooted in community and care. Today, they are experiencing a renaissance, driven by clear evidence of their positive impact on residents’ well-being, community cohesion, and public services. This growing recognition is inspiring almshouse charities to build more homes as well as new almshouse charities being established, proving that this ‘timeless housing model offers timely solutions for modern housing challenges.”

A Celebration of Hope: Breaking New Ground in Budleigh Salterton

On Tuesday 27th May, Budleigh Salterton marked a historic and hopeful milestone. Newly elected Mayor Penny Lewis, donning a hard hat and high-vis vest, ceremonially broke ground on the site of the town’s new almshouses — one small dig for the mayor, one significant stride towards creating much-needed homes for local people.

Affectionately dubbed ‘Digger Day’, the event was a red-letter occasion for the community. With planning permission secured and the site prepared, residents gathered to witness the first trench dug, applauding a moment that was, in every sense of the word, groundbreaking.

Situated alongside Seachange, the town’s health and wellbeing hub, these new almshouses are due to welcome their first residents in early 2026. A testament to local spirit, heritage, and the enduring value of almshouse living, the project promises to provide not only affordable homes but a renewed sense of belonging and community connection.

Chris Davis, Chairman of The Shandford Trust commented: “Helping local people to stay in their community in their later years is a real challenge, especially in property hot spots such as Budleigh Salterton. We are delighted to be contributing to the solution, but there is so much more to do!”

And…..this is just the start

Almshouses satisfy a small but vital proportion of the charitable housing need. With a sizable social housing waiting list in Budleigh and its villages for older generations, the value of further almshouses is clear. After all, each almshouse occupied by the older generation moves younger applicants further up the main social housing list.

At their heart, almshouses deliver lasting value – strengthening communities, supporting government objectives, and offering those in need the chance to live well, with dignity and purpose.

posted 5 June 2025

Local children and almshouse residents gather for ‘bun day’ in Bedworth

A joyous story on Birmingham Live website as Nicholas Chamberlain Charities celebrates its founders day with the whole town!

More than 1,000 school children were given half a day off school – and treated to a special bun – to mark a day steeped in Bedworth’s history. Children from primary schools across the town gathered at the almshouses for the traditional ‘Founder’s Day’ celebrations.

It dates back to the 1700s when residents of the almshouses would have been joined by the school children for a dinner hosted by the Nicholas Chamberlaine Charities to commemorate Founder’s Day

But, following a population boom in the Victorian era, the dinner was replaced with a fruit bun. This tradition continued until it was stopped entirely during World War Two due to rationing and was then revived in 2000 – and continues until this day.

To read the full story and see all the photos, visit: Bedworth’s brilliant ‘Bun Day’ 2025 in pictures as thousands gather in town – Birmingham Live

posted 29 May 2025

Bedworth Founders Day images courtesy of Thom Udall

Perry Almshouses Case Study: Window Replacement in Grade II Listed Building

The Almshouse Association recently approved a loan of £25,013 to the Perry Almshouses to support the replacement of kitchen single glazed Crittall metal windows with slimline double glazed units in seven of their properties.

If a charity does not have sufficient funds to carry out necessary works to their almshouses, part of the service The Almshouse Association offers its member charities is financial help in the forms of grants and loans.

The Charity has generously documented their project to support others undertaking similar work and to demonstrate how funds raised by The Almshouse Association are helping almshouse charities update their properties, ensuring both their longevity and the comfort of their residents.

CASE STUDY: Perry Almshouses has been held in Trust since 1851 and have provided accommodation for 170 years. Comprising of 10 one-bedroom cottages providing community housing, a sense of friendship, safety, and security for residents.

Balancing Heritage and modern efficiency was our top priority

The replacement of single-glazed metal windows in a Grade II listed building presents a unique challenge: balancing the preservation of historical integrity with the need for modern efficiency.

This case study focuses on a kitchen renovation within such a property, aiming to upgrade its windows while adhering to strict heritage regulations.

The project’s primary goals were to enhance energy efficiency, reduce heat loss, and improve acoustic insulation, all without compromising the building’s architectural character. This required a bespoke solution that carefully matched the original design while introducing double-glazing to meet contemporary standards.

Through a thoughtful and collaborative approach, the team successfully navigated these challenges to deliver a harmonious blend of old and new.

KEY FACTS

Building type: Grade II listed building built 1851.
Original windows: Single-glazed metal.
Replacement: Double glazed bespoke units.
Funding: A 25K loan from The Almshouse Association.

Challenges

KEY FACTS

Adhering to strict conservation regulations.
Sourcing bespoke windows to match the building aesthetic.
Overcoming practical installation challenges due to the buildings age.

Replacing the single-glazed metal windows in a Grade II listed building posed several significant challenges.

One of the foremost hurdles was adhering to the strict conservation regulations that govern alterations to listed properties.

These regulations required that any changes preserve the architectural and historical integrity of the building, necessitating careful design and approval processes.

Additionally, sourcing bespoke double-glazed windows that matched the original aesthetic while providing improved thermal efficiency proved to be a complex task.

The constraints of maintaining the visual harmony of the building’s design meant that off-the-shelf options were not viable, and custom solutions required collaboration with specialised manufacturers.

CJL Designs, with over 25 years’ experience of restoring many types of windows in protected Grade I and Grade II listed buildings, offered a fully qualified window restoration and conservation service.

Practical challenges also emerged during installation

The age of the building introduced issues such as uneven window frames and delicate surrounding structures, requiring precise craftsmanship and specialised tools to avoid damage.

The project also had to consider the impact on residents, ensuring minimal disruption during the renovation process.

Finding the Solution

The chosen solution for replacing the single-glazed metal windows involved commissioning bespoke double-glazed units that met both conservation requirements and modern performance standards.

The design process began with extensive research and collaboration with specialists, including conservation officers, appointing a lead contractor who had expert conservation experience and who was able to coordinate other contracting disciplines to provide a total turnkey solution. This ensured that the new windows closely matched the original aesthetic while incorporating advanced glazing technology.

The bespoke windows were crafted using high-quality materials that replicated the slim profiles and detailing of the original metal frames. To comply with listed building regulations, the team worked closely with the local planning authority to secure the necessary approvals, providing detailed drawings and specifications to demonstrate how the replacements would preserve the building’s character.

During the installation phase, specialised techniques were employed to address the building’s unique challenges. Precision fitting was crucial to accommodate the irregularities in the window frames caused by the building’s age, ensuring a seamless integration. Careful attention was paid to avoid damage to the surrounding structures, and steps were taken to protect the interior and exterior of the property during the work.

Results

The replacement of the kitchen’s single-glazed metal windows with bespoke double-glazed units yielded a range of positive outcomes. The new windows significantly improved the thermal efficiency of the space, reducing heat loss and lowering energy consumption. This enhanced energy efficiency contributed not only to cost savings but also to a more environmentally sustainable household.

Acoustic insulation was also greatly improved, with the double-glazed units effectively reducing external noise, a particularly notable benefit for a kitchen that sees frequent use. Feedback from residents highlighted increased comfort and satisfaction with the space, reinforcing the success of the project.

KEY FACTS

Improved thermal efficiency and acoustic insulation.
Positive feedback from residents.
A blueprint for future renovations in properties.

“The new kitchen window is perfect thank you” – Janet Saunders – resident

Importantly, the project was completed in full compliance with listed building regulations. The bespoke windows preserved the historical character of the property, earning positive feedback. The seamless integration of modern functionality with traditional aesthetics serves as a model for similar renovations in heritage properties.

“I am so happy with the new kitchen window. It has made a huge difference in that it feels much warmer and the addition of an opening window makes me feel more secure as opposed to having to leave the kitchen door open for some fresh air. The gentleman who fitted the window was extremely thorough in all aspects of his work. All I can say now is a huge thank you to those who have made these changes possible so that we residents can live here in this beautiful building in more comfort”.
Collen Fennell – resident

“I would like to express my sincere appreciation to you and the Trustees for planning and organising the almshouse kitchen window replacements. The windows look superb, and it is a joy to be condensation-free even after a frosty night. To have an opening window is a great advantage. Even the finely made pole to aid opening and closing is appreciated. Chris, the window fitter, as always, was very caring and respectful of our homes and left no sign of debris or dust. The carpenter, too, was excellent. The two men worked alongside whatever the weather threw at them”.
Linda Parrot – resident

Funding and Support

As a small almshouse charity obtaining funding was crucial for the project’s success to be completed as one-off project. To fund the project using reserve funds or any capacity from the income expenditure account would have required a longer timeframe for installation.

The Almshouse Association interest free loan of 25K provided the ideal solution. The 4-stage application process was robust; however, support, advice and guidance was readily available from the Loans and Grant Team.

An additional grant of £1.5K was also provided from the Winterbourne Parish Council, which has always been supportive and strive to support local communities and parishioners of Winterbourne. Their loan and grant enabled the replacement of single-glazed windows with bespoke double-glazed units, meeting heritage standards while improving energy efficiency and comfort.

The funding eased the financial strain of this specialised project and highlighted the importance of preserving heritage properties. The Almshouse Association’s and Winterbourne Parish Council’s support modernised the property while maintaining its historical integrity.

Conclusion

The replacement of single-glazed metal windows with bespoke double-glazed units in this Grade II listed building demonstrates how modern needs can be harmonised with historical preservation. By carefully adhering to conservation regulations and employing a thoughtful design process, the project successfully balanced the demands of heritage aesthetics with the benefits of improved energy efficiency and acoustic insulation.

This case study highlights the importance of collaboration between conservation authorities, specialised manufacturers, and skilled contractors in achieving such a complex renovation. The project serves as a valuable example for similar endeavours, offering insights and strategies for overcoming challenges while respecting the integrity of heritage properties.

Case study author – A Bebbington tony.bebbington62@gmail.com

Project Partners

Perry Almshouse residents and trustees
The Almshouse Association
Winterbourne Parish Council
GJL Designs www.cjldesigns.co.uk/services
PRJ Contractors prjcontractors@outlook.com
South Glousestershire Council

posted 29 May 2025

The Times recognises Gosport almshouse charity as one of UK’s Best Places to Work

Gosport housing charity Thorngate Churcher Trust has been recognised in the prestigious Sunday Times’ Best Places to Work list for 2025, published at the weekend.

The Sunday Times Best Places to Work Awards, powered by WorkL, recognises organisations who have consistently high levels of employee experience and wellbeing in the UK.

Thorngate Churcher Trust supports older people with housing needs in the Gosport and surrounding areas, with 124 sheltered flats that have 24 hour warden access, and residential care from Russell Churcher Court care home.

The charity is improving its offering to meet local need with a development of 30 new flats, due for completion later in 2025.

Through a significant investment in wellbeing for its 89 staff members, Thorngate has reduced staff leavers by more than 50% in recent years, through a programme of open communication that includes multiple staff feedback channels, reward and recognition schemes, wellbeing support and opportunities for development – all of which have been created with input and feedback from the staff themselves to ensure effectiveness and value.

Thorngate Chief Executive Officer, Anne Taylor, said, “I am immensely proud of the work we have all done to help create an organisation that is welcoming, supportive and provides a space for our staff to grow and develop over time. Coming to work should be something you look forward to and it’s been a team effort to ensure that’s what we offer at Thorngate Churcher Trust. To have our efforts recognised with this award is a fantastic achievement.”

Chairman Mark Hook said, “The improvements we’ve seen in staff retention and satisfaction demonstrate the value in investing in your staff wellbeing. We’ve always known that this was a special place to work and we are delighted to be named on such a well-respected national platform.”

“The Sunday Times Best Places to Work list is the UK’s biggest survey of employee engagement, compiled in partnership with workplace expert WorkL. Spanning a raft of sectors and located throughout the UK, the organisations in this year’s list range from innovative start-ups with a handful of employees to big multinational corporations staffed by thousands. These organisations know that happy employees are the superpower helping them thrive.”
Zoe Thomas, editor of The Sunday Times Best Places to Work.

This nationwide workplace survey honours and celebrates the UK’s top employers – which number over 500 organisations across industries and scale – and highlights the best workplaces for women, the LGBTQIA+ community, disabled employees, ethnic minorities, younger and older workers, as well as those that provide the best wellbeing support.

For the first time, this year’s survey also highlights the Best Places to Work in seven industry sectors: Business & Management Services, Hospitality, Technology, Construction & Building Materials’ Financial Services’ Marketing & Advertising and Non-Profit & Charities.

The survey used to decide the award winners uses 26 questions from WorkL’s employee engagement survey, developed by behavioural scientists, data analysts, psychologists, business leaders, academics and other independent parties to most accurately monitor employee engagement, wellbeing and discretionary effort in the workplace.

posted 29 May 2025

Bette celebrates her 100th birthday!

Barnstaple Almshouses celebrated Bette Palmer’s 100^th Birthday on Wednesday 7 May 2025 at the Royal & Fortescue Hotel in Barnstaple. Bette was joined by almshouse residents, trustees and the Mayor to celebrate her birthday.

When asked what she would like to have for her birthday celebration, Bette replied,

‘Something Bubbly!’.

Her friend and fellow resident, Jas Evans, arranged a lovely afternoon tea with prosecco which was much enjoyed by all.

Bette’s Life story – sent in by Lizzie Gover – Estate Manager at Barnstaple Almshouses

Our resident Bette Palmer has reached the landmark celebration of being 100 years old!

In March 2025, as her 100^th birthday loomed, I went to chat to Bette to ask what her secret was for a long and happy life and this is what she said:

“Keep busy! I was born with an over-active thyroid which meant I was always doing something! When war broke out things were different; shops were restricted so I decided that when I wanted something to wear I would just have to make it myself! So I became a dressmaker and I had a knitting machine and soon my neighbours were asking me to make suits for them too!

I was 14 when the war broke out and living in Wakefield, Yorkshire. I had to fire-watch after doing my homework. There was always an aircraft coming in and out as there were lots of training places nearby.

Because I was in English language senior class I was given an Austrian Jewish girl who was the same age as me to help her with her English. The plan was that us senior girls were to be taken to Canada on two ships and I was listed to be on the second ship. This plan was cancelled however as the first ship was torpedoed when it was halfway across the ocean.

My family were all involved in railway duties and during that time my school was closed down due to a shortage of pupils. I was needed at London Midland Scotland Railways as the young men were called up and we had to make sure the railway transport from the munition factories to the south of the country were not interrupted. My job was to make sure the right fuel was available for the right engines. It was exciting work but noisy. All the noise from the engines on the platform outside is the reason I later suffered from ear trouble and got tinnitus.

I carried on doing more war work and we became short of teachers to I went to Leeds University and took a teaching course. For seven years I was a teacher at Primary School and I loved it! I would say it was the happiest time of my life. I had 50 children in a class and I had a skill of making them feel like I was their auntie. Their parents would invite me round for dinner and I used to have all the parents and children around to my garden too.

Peace efforts were happening and I was asked to be a secretary to help with the twinning of Normandy and a village in Yorkshire. I went to Normandy and met some lovely people over there. Every time it came round to my birthdays or Christmas, they would show their appreciation for my efforts. I brought a little boy back with me for a holiday and when I returned they gave me a keepsake bottle which I still have to this day.

Before the war ended I was offered a job of private banking which I started in Derbyshire. It was difficult to find people at the time who had education and experience so I got a good job. Meanwhile my boyfriend who was in the RAF proposed. He had trained in Rhodesia to be a fighter pilot.

There was an open day as the airfield in Preston, Lancashire. My fiancé said to me ‘Do you fancy a flip?’ I said ‘What do you mean?’ He walked me to a 2 seater aeroplane and he said ‘Climb in the back and tighten your seatbelt!’. He flew me off the airfield, across Lancashire and around Blackpool Tower twice! He said ‘Would you like some aerobatics?’ I said ‘No thanks! I want to go back!’

We were married for 18 years. One day he had an ache and I insisted he went to the Doctor, who sent him to the hospital. I called in to see him and we chatted and he seemed fine so I called into friends on the way home and reported that he was cheerful and had been sat up in bed chatting.

The hospital rang; he had died, we assume from a heart attack. He wasn’t quite 40. I was 39 too and I couldn’t believe it. After that, life was slow.

They advertised for people to emigrate to Australia as they were short of people skilled for work. For £10 you could go! Having been a teacher and a banker I thought I might be useful so I drove in my little car from Yorkshire to London where I would buy my ticket.

I went to see friends whilst I was in London and one of these friends had lost his wife. He said to me ‘Why do you want to go to Australia?’ I said ‘Because I’m at a loose end here. I might as well go there! And I would quite like a hotel’.

One friend said ‘There’s a hotel for sale on the Isle of Wight’ and she had a leaflet. She said ‘Why bother going to Australia when you could buy that one!’

Me and my bereaved friend looked at each other and said ‘What do you think? Shall we have a look at it?’

So we went to the Isle of Wight and it was a beautiful Georgian style building in three acres of parkland and we decided we would buy this hotel instead of going to Australia!

So we bought the hotel and the first work we did there was our own wedding reception!

It gave us practice in how to run a hotel and we made plans for the future. We were excited to build a ballroom so got the plans and ordered oak panels and girders to be imported from China. We laid the floor ourselves over one weekend and worked hard to make it decent for dancing. We had a few happy years in that hotel.

After some time though things got a bit difficult and we brought in a partner to help us but he didn’t fit in well and we decided to sell the hotel and come back to England and start a business. We bought the New Inn at Goodleigh. It was very pretty and located in a village that had good local trade. They needed a dining room so we organised that.

My second husband went on a business trip to China and when he came back he fell ill and died. I gave up the pub a short time after that.

Whilst we were at the New Inn we had got involved with the Masonry and my husband became a member. I found out there was a ladies lodge and I joined. After a few years I ended up being a senior member in the area and I met my third husband at a Mason’s Meeting. We were asked to run the club in the lodge and move into the flat in Barnstaple. Whilst there, running the club, my third husband got cancer and died. I lived on my own for a while but I couldn’t do the lodge work on my own so it was a challenging time but then one day one of the members told me about a vacancy in an almshouse!

I love living in the almshouses because it feels secure. You’re not likely to get thrown out unless you misbehave! And they make sure you are looked after. So I am here, retired, waiting to be 100 and I feel fit enough to get there!

I have a vacuum cleaner upstairs, a cordless for the stairs and a good washing machine. I manage to look after myself so far. My friend pops in to say hello and we often go out for lunch. Having been a hotelier, I can be critical but I try to keep quiet even when they over-cook the fish! I have no complaints. I’ve had a lovely life. I’ve worked hard and I’ve enjoyed it.“

Social and charitable housing providers empower residents to drive change

Six Midlands-based social and charitable housing providers have joined forces to give residents a stronger voice, including Broadening Choices for Older People (BCOP), Harborne Parish Lands Charity (HPLC), Lench’s Trust, Sir Josiah Mason Trust (SJMT), Yardley Great Trust (YGT) and Solihull Care Housing Association (SCHA).

The newly launched Residents’ Scrutiny Panel (RSP) uniquely brings groups of residents together to discuss the quality of services at each of their schemes and share ideas for improvements with landlords. It expands on the previous RSP, formed of four of the organisations, which won an Almshouse Association award but was put on hold due to the pandemic.

Twenty-five residents participated in the re-launch meeting in April, where they discussed which areas were of greatest interest for influencing decision-making.

Attendees included Jonathan and Cherry who live at SCHA. Jonathan said: “I like the principle of being concerned with and interested in the resident’s experience. It will be interesting to see how it develops as the panel gets beneath hearsay to listen to people’s experiences and what it’s like to live in these schemes.”

Cherry, who joined the RSP at the suggestion of her scheme manager, added: “It’s great to learn and hear different opinions and voices. Everyone brings something to the table. I’m really looking forward to the journey!”

Commenting on the RSP, Chrissy, who lives at Lench’s Trust, said: “I wanted to get involved because I feel we should have a voice. I’m looking forward to seeing it all come together step by step.”

Pat, who represented SJMT and YGT said: “It’s great! I think it’s a really good idea and it’s something that’s needed. It allows you to see how other trusts work and meet new people.”

Margaret, an HPLC resident, said: “I’m impressed! Emma, the facilitator, was excellent. I got involved as I would like to know what happens in other schemes compared to where I live and what improvements can be made across the sector.” BCOP resident, Lynn, was also impressed. She added: “The RSP is a good way to give tenants a voice so they can be heard by management.”

The meeting was held at Lench’s Trust, and non-residents were offered a tour of the scheme to gain even more ideas for their own homes.

David Healey, Partnership Chief Executive for SJMT and YGT, said:

“I’m delighted that new partners have joined the project, giving even more residents the opportunity to have a say and enable services to continuously improve. Residents have a unique perspective and can now play an even greater role in shaping their communities by sharing good practice between the organisations and holding management to account.”

posted 20 May 2025