Almshouse Stories | The Almshouse Association

Celebrating community, care and diversity at The Finchley Charities

Across the country, almshouse charities offer safe, supportive and welcoming homes for people in housing need. In this article, Almshouse Association Ambassador Simon Smith shines a spotlight on The Finchley Charities in Barnet, London — the almshouse charity where he previously served as Chairman — and shares why he believes it is truly special. Let Simon explain…

“A heritage of care
The Finchley Charities is the largest almshouse provider in the London Borough of Barnet, with a proud history dating back to 1488. Today, it offers 174 almshouse units across three sites, welcoming men, women and couples aged 55 and over. While its foundations are historic, the Charity continues to grow and innovate, ensuring residents receive both excellent housing and a vibrant community life.

A focus on community and connection
What sets The Finchley Charities apart is its commitment to fostering genuine connections and a sense of belonging. Each scheme boasts its own Community Hall, hosting a wide array of activities, from art classes, bingo, quizzes, bridge and knitting, to crochet, sewing and a repair club. Regular coffee mornings and monthly free lunches are also offered through their partnership with FEAST With Us, which teaches nutrition and cookery skills via the Healthy Eating on a Budget programme. Some activities are organised by the Charity, others led by residents themselves, all designed to encourage interaction and inclusion.

Engaging beyond the almshouses
Residents are actively encouraged to participate in wider community volunteering, supported by links with local schools, organisations and projects. Highlights include carol performances by nearby primary schools, a Peer Support Project with Barnet African Caribbean Association and a community allotment initiative with Oak Lodge Special School.

Reflecting the rich diversity of Barnet, the Charity celebrates cultural and religious events including Hanukkah, Eid, Diwali, Nowruz and Black History Month. Community Halls also host informative sessions with local organisations such as the Community Police, Age UK and local law firms offering talks on wills, probate and lasting power of attorney.

Listening to residents
The Charity’s Senior Leadership Team, alongside Sheltered Housing Officers, regularly host ‘Resident Roadshows’, visiting each site to discuss concerns and plan future events.

CEO Carmel Miedziolka emphasises:

“We are committed to working alongside residents to improve services and strengthen local communities. We listen, act on feedback, and aim to develop a harmonious environment where everyone feels safe, secure, and included.”

Feedback is gathered through surveys and resident meetings, ensuring all voices are heard. Minutes and survey results are made available to residents, reinforcing transparency and inclusivity.

Strong governance, resident involvement
The Charity benefits from a wealth of trustee expertise across diverse disciplines. Trustees actively support staff and the Charity’s operations, with sub-committees such as the Health and Safety Committee, including resident members – after all, who better to advise on matters affecting day-to-day life? Co-opted trustees also bring additional skills and independent perspectives to strengthen governance. New trustees meet residents as part of their induction, embedding inclusivity at every level.

At The Finchley Charities, outstanding housing, vibrant community life and resident engagement come together to create a truly exceptional home for older people—one where every individual can thrive.”

Do you have an almshouse story to tell? We’d love to hear it and share how your charity is making a difference.

posted October 2025

An unforgettable day to celebrate home, heritage and hospitality

Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses, Watford, founded in 1580

In June 2025, the Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses in Watford, hosted a spectacular garden party to celebrate the refurbishment of their gardens, the unveiling of a blue plaque marking their long history, a bespoke sculpted birdbath, and the presentation of three bursaries from the Dame Mary Morison Apprenticeship Trust to local care leavers.

The event not only celebrated the almshouses’ rich heritage but also promoted their values of Home, Heritage and Hospitality, helping the wider Watford community appreciate the importance of almshouse living for older residents.

Guests of honour included Luther Blissett OBE, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, who unveiled the blue plaque; Nicholas Buxton, High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, who unveiled the birdbath; and other local dignitaries such as Watford Mayor Peter Taylor, former County Council Leader Richard Roberts, Chief Inspector Andy Wiseman, and Steve Marmion, CEO of Watford Palace Theatre.

Residents and visitors were warmly welcomed by Kay, a remarkable resident who turned 102 (above centre photo) in August, and Felicity Evans MBE, Chair of Trustees.

The birdbath, created by a local sculpture group, symbolises the eight women for whom the almshouses were originally built. The homes have been continuously occupied since 1580, a remarkable testament to their enduring purpose.

The newly refurbished gardens, beautifully curated by the Sunnyside Rural Trust, provided a stunning backdrop for the celebration. Guests enjoyed a relaxed afternoon tea, generously catered by Dallings of Kings Langley, while residents, families and friends came together in the spirit of community.

For centuries, almshouses have offered comfort, safety and companionship for older people. In today’s world, their blend of heritage, home and humanity continues to shine brightly in Watford.

Photography: Andrew Lalchan Photography and Steve Danzig Photography

👉 Learn more: www.watfordbmcalmshouses.org.uk

posted October 2025

In Memory of Christopher Ray

We were deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Christopher Ray, Chairman of The Frederick Ray Trust. His loss is felt profoundly — both by his family and by all within the almshouse movement.

Christopher’s company was always a joy, his wisdom generous and freely shared. We remain truly grateful for all he did to champion almshouses and enrich the lives of their residents. It was a privilege to have known him, to share conversations about his thoughtful vision for almshouses, and to hear his fond recollections of the Trust’s long and remarkable family history.

The almshouse community is immeasurably poorer without Christopher’s warmth, humour, and tireless enthusiasm. He will be greatly missed and long remembered with admiration and affection.

Among the obituaries Christopher left behind was one he wished to see published with us. It is our privilege and honour to share his words here:

Chris Ray died at the age of 66, after a brave journey with Prostate Cancer for over 12 years. He became a trustee at the age of 22 in 1982, serving for 43 years, the last 10 of which were as Chairman. In the summer of 2024 he presented to the guests at The Almshouse Association seminar at Charterhouse in London, describing the establishment of the charity, by the Will of his grandfather Frederick, for the benefit of his retired employees in 1945.

During his time as a trustee, the properties at Rays Close grew from six to eighteen. In May 2018 there was a church service in Bedford, followed by tea on the lawns of Rays Close, and the unveiling of a sculpture by the Deputy Lord Lieutenant. This was to commemorate 100 years since the death of Frederick Lee Ray of the First Bedfordshire Regiment, in whose memory the charity was established.

The next generation of family trustees are already in place, with his daughter Phoebe succeeding him as Chairman. It is a duty that is willingly undertaken to honour both the settlor and his son, who made the ultimate sacrifice in 1918. Chris’s experience and knowledge will be greatly missed.

21 October 2025

Rethinking affordable, community-led charitable housing

Appleby Blue, United St Saviours Charity – RIBA Award Winner

Congratulations to Appleby Blue: A triumph for modern almshouses!

Appleby Blue has won the RIBA Stirling Prize, the UK’s most prestigious architectural accolade. The Royal Institute of British Architects (RIBA), founded under a royal charter in 1837 and recognised internationally, champions design excellence and innovation. This award celebrates Appleby Blue’s success in combining stunning architecture, social purpose, and economic impact, setting a new benchmark for sustainable, transformative housing.

Almshouses are making a powerful comeback. For over a thousand years, they have blended design with altruism, creating homes that foster dignity, connection, and belonging. At their best, they are civic architecture at its finest, an exemplar model of community-led housing.

Momentum is growing. New almshouse charities, including one in Budleigh Salterton, Devon, show this historic model thriving today. More than just homes, they are in-perpetuity legacies, sustainable, community-led housing designed to serve generations.

Appleby Blue proves that architecture with social purpose can be beautiful, enduring, and transformative, demonstrating that almshouses are not just a link to the past, but a vital solution for the future.

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association, explores why almshouses are experiencing a modern revival…

“The remarkable news that one of our flagship almshouse member charities, United St Saviours Charities has won the internationally recognised RIBA Stirling Prize for their flagship almshouse Appleby Blue, has once again placed community-led charitable housing firmly in the spotlight.

You may wonder what persuaded the judges to honour Appleby Blue? We think the answer lies in a unique combination of history, innovation and social purpose.

Beneath the headlines is a thousand-year-old model of community-led charitable housing, seamlessly integrated with contemporary architecture to create spaces of tranquillity, security and connection. Appleby Blue did not emerge from a single idea but from centuries of the tried-and-tested almshouse model, guided by the courageous leadership of the CEO, planners, visionary architects and trustees.

Its almshouse design features, thoughtfully retained and reinterpreted for a modern city setting, have inspired architects and planners across the UK and as far afield as Japan.

What is the “magic” of Appleby Blue?

Is it the shared entrance, fostering neighbourly encounters? The communal benches and tranquil courtyard, alive with trees, water, and greenery? Or the vibrant community, where residents share recipes, art, sewing, and connections with the wider Southwark community?

As one resident recently said, “It’s paradise. I just love living here. I feel very lucky.”

Like many almshouse developments, it is difficult to pinpoint a single feature. The success lies in the holistic combination of architecture, social design, and community.

Standing on the shoulders of centuries of almshouses, Appleby Blue demonstrates that this model is the exemplar of community-led charitable housing, both architecturally and socially.

It is time for almshouses to be fully recognised for their contributions to society. Once in the shadows, they now shine, proving that architecture with social purpose can be beautiful, enduring and transformative. Appleby Blue is quite rightly in the headlines but for the last decade or so, new almshouses have been built round the country at a rate of many hundreds a year.

As charitable legacies, almshouses are gifts to both present and future generations. With new, often smaller almshouses being created, this enduring model continues to evolve, not as a link to the past, but as a vital, forward-looking solution to the housing challenges of our time.”

Further reading

posted 20 October 2025

Dorant House marks 45 years

Joyful garden celebration at almshouses in St Albans

Residents, families, friends, trustees and staff gathered at Dorant House almshouses, St Albans, to celebrate the almshouse’s 45th anniversary with a relaxed garden party in the beautiful grounds.

Guests enjoyed a delicious spread of sandwiches and homemade cakes, while local entertainer Peter the Magician delighted everyone with his card tricks and sleight of hand.

Residents described the afternoon as “a wonderful get-together with friends and neighbours” — a fitting tribute to the warm sense of community that defines life at Dorant House.

The almshouse was founded through the Will of Lionel Annesley Dorant (1880–1942), a respected St Albans land and property agent. His wish was to provide homes for “people of limited means and good character” from the local area. Originally serving the former City of St Albans, the charity’s remit was extended in 1985 (with Charity Commission approval) to cover the wider City and District.

Today, Dorant House offers eleven studio and eight one-bedroom flats across three floors, with lift access and a large communal lounge for social activities — a lasting testament to Mr Dorant’s vision of providing comfort, companionship and security for local residents.

posted 20 October 2025

Recording the next ‘Alms Around’ podcast at Ewelme Almshouses

Nick recently met Jeremy Porteus, Founder and Director of Housing LIN, at the historic ‘Cloisters’ Ewelme Almshouses in Oxfordshire to record the next episode of our “Alms Around” podcast series.

They were joined by Angharad Saunders (Trust Manager) and John Brannan, a resident of the almshouses, for a wide-ranging and colourful conversation exploring the enduring legacy of almshouses, the influence of Chaucer, and the timeless importance of being a good neighbour.

Our sincere thanks go to Dr Tim Wilson, Trustee of the Ewelme Almshouse Charity, for providing such a stunning and atmospheric setting for the recording.

The “Alms Around” podcast series will launch in 2026, as part of The Almshouse Association’s 80th anniversary celebrations, shining a spotlight on the rich history and modern relevance of almshouses across the UK.

From Ferryhill to the Palace: Les Lewis honoured by The King

In their latest resident story, the Durham Aged Mineworkers’ Homes Association (DAMHA) chat to Les Lewis, a devoted lay minister from Ferryhill, whose lifelong service to his community recently earned him a royal honour.

“I grew up in Ferryhill and started going to church when I was young,” Les recalls. “I sang in the choir for many years and in my twenties, the vicar asked if I’d consider training to become a Reader — what’s now known as a Licensed Lay Minister.”

After three years of training, Les was licensed in 1978 and has been preaching, teaching and leading services ever since. His ministry extends beyond the church walls – he helps lead Remembrance Sunday services and has presided over more than 250 funerals during his time of service.

Les began his working life as a joiner with Stephenson’s in Bishop Auckland, catching an early morning bus from Ferryhill to Spennymoor and then on to work. He later held various roles, including with the local council, and spent time driving a minibus for young people attending a training centre in Ferryhill. He eventually returned to the council, where he trained young joiners, some of whom still stop him in the street today to say hello.

Earlier this year, Les received an unexpected letter from Buckingham Palace, inviting him to accept Maundy Money from The King during a special service at Durham Cathedral. “At first I thought it was a joke,” he admits. “I still don’t know who nominated me, but once I realised it was real, I was honoured to accept.”

The Maundy Service, a centuries-old tradition, recognises those who dedicate their lives to helping others. The number of recipients matches the Monarch’s age; this year, 76 men and 76 women. Les received two purses from The King: one red, containing commemorative coins, and one white, containing silver Maundy coins, each piece representing the monarch’s age in pence.

“It was wonderful meeting The King and Queen,” Les says. “Sharing the occasion with my son made it even more special.”

In his spare time, Les enjoys making walking sticks, and he even sent one to The King at Balmoral. “I received a lovely letter saying he’d got it,” Les smiles. “You never know — maybe one day I’ll see him on television using it!”

15 October 2025

Royal celebration for Appleby Blue almshouses

Bermondsey, London – 13 October 2025

On Friday 10th October, the streets of Bermondsey hummed with excitement as His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester visited Appleby Blue Almshouse, the striking new development by United St Saviour’s Charity. The occasion was more than a ceremonial visit, it was a celebration of community, design, and a 500-year legacy of caring for older people in Southwark.

Greeted warmly by Colonel Simon Duckworth, His Majesty’s Representative Deputy Lieutenant for Southwark, the Duke was introduced to Nick Phillips and Martyn Craddock, before embarking on a tour of the landmark building.

Appleby Blue, recently shortlisted for the RIBA Stirling Prize, has already been recognised as a triumph of thoughtful architecture, blending beauty, accessibility, and a sense of home.

The Duke explored the sunlit courtyard, the inviting garden room, and the roof gardens, stopping to meet residents and staff who shared their experiences of life at Appleby Blue. He visited a fully accessible flat, designed to enable independent living, and witnessed firsthand how the building fosters both comfort and community.

Later, over tea and cake in the Lounge, residents had the chance to chat with the Duke about their lives at Appleby Blue. Stories of friendship, support and newfound independence filled the room, a reminder of the extraordinary impact of carefully designed spaces and dedicated care.

“It was a real honour to welcome His Royal Highness to Appleby Blue,” said Martyn Craddock, Chief Executive of United St Saviour’s Charity. “This visit highlights the importance of creating well-designed homes where older people can live independently and joyfully, as part of a strong, thriving community.”

Nick Phillips, Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association, added:
“Almshouses play a unique and vital role in communities across the UK. Today’s visit is a wonderful recognition of the work being done here in Bermondsey, providing warm and welcoming communities in exemplary buildings.”

As the Royal visit concluded, residents, staff, and the Bermondsey community felt a renewed sense of pride and inspiration. Appleby Blue is not just a building, it is a vibrant, living community, a testament to centuries of generosity, and a beacon of what thoughtful design and care can achieve for future generations.

_{All photos: Richard Gray for The Almshouse Association}

posted 14 October 2025

Holcim UK volunteers refresh St Joseph’s almshouse grounds

On Monday 29 September 2025, two employees from Holcim UK generously gave their time to help improve the grounds at St Joseph’s Homestead, Albany Road, Stratford-upon-Avon.

The almshouses, part of the Municipal Charities of Stratford-upon-Avon, provide homes for eight residents.

The volunteers, Simon Collins and Paul Wagstaff, both IT engineers at Holcim UK, spent the day painting the garden fencing to refresh and enhance the communal outdoor space.

William Clemmey, Chief Officer of the Municipal Charities, said:
“The fences at St Joseph’s Homestead were becoming untidy, so we are delighted that Simon and Paul volunteered to repaint them. Their work has helped brighten the gardens for our residents, and we are always grateful for the support we receive from local businesses.”

Photo Credit: Nigel Thornton, Municipal Charities of Stratford-upon-Avon Handyman

posted 2 October 2025

When passion meets opportunity, communities thrive

A group of dedicated local people are coming together to launch a new almshouse charity in the village of Framlingham, Suffolk. The vision is inspired by the proven impact almshouses have in supporting those in need while strengthening community life.

Driving the initiative is Nick Corke, who has successfully led almshouses and community projects in Framlingham, alongside James Tanner, Chair of the award-winning Mills Charity. With land secured, a committed team, including landowners, planners, architects, and community leaders, gathered in Framlingham, Suffolk this week at Hope Park, to begin discussions on creating what could become the first new almshouse charity in the area for many years.

While initial funding is already in place, the charity is now seeking philanthropists to join the mission and leave a lasting legacy, just as Thomas Mills did three centuries ago, with almshouses that still stand as an enduring example of generosity and vision.

Attendees: Nick Phillips – CEO, The Almshouse Association; Richard Buss, Clerks Well Developments; James Tanner, Hollins Architects; Rob Marsh Filey, Architect; Ray Ricks, Ray Ricks Consulting (Planning Consultant); Dr Alison Pooley, University of Suffolk; Emma Ratzer MBE, CEO, Access Community Trust; Clive Eastwood, Chairman, Framlingham Town Council; Nick Corke, CEO, Hour Community

posted 2 October 2025