Almshouse Stories | The Almshouse Association

Time capsule from 1959 found in Derby almshouses

Hidden message from 1959 discovered during Derby Almshouse Refurbishment

A handwritten message hidden behind a staircase almost 67 years ago has been discovered during the refurbishment of The Liversage Trust’s historic almshouses on London Road, Derby.

The note, left alongside an empty bottle of Black & White Scotch whisky, was uncovered by contractors working on the Trust’s £3.4 million refurbishment project. It had been concealed behind the staircase of No. 87A since 12 October 1959.

The discovery was made by a joiner working alongside Site Manager Steve Wooddisse as they removed the staircase to create space for a new downstairs toilet, helping to adapt the Grade II listed almshouse for modern living while preserving its historic character.

Written on the back of a Ciro nylon hair net packet, the note offers a remarkable snapshot of life in Derby on the day it was hidden.

It reads:

“The Best of Luck Mate. I hope you are not at war – it’s a terrifying thing war. This was bricked up Oct 12th 1959. Just after the general election when the Conservatives got in by a 101 majority. It is raining in Derby now for the first time since about April after a first class summer. Derby 1 Portsmouth 0. Not doing so well this season Derby.”

Signed W H Broad, 83 Swarkestone Drive, Littleover.

The note captures far more than a date. It records the writer’s thoughts about the prospect of war, references the recent General Election, comments on the weather after an unusually dry summer and records Derby County’s 1-0 victory over Portsmouth just days earlier, while also noting that the team was “not doing so well this season.”

Alongside the note was an empty bottle of Black & White Special Blend Scotch Whisky. Although the whisky had long since gone, the bottle itself has been identified as an authentic example dating from between 1953 and 1962. Had it remained full and unopened, similar bottles can be worth as much as £300 at auction today.

For Andy Mellors of The Liversage Trust, it is the handwritten note that gives the discovery its real significance.

Andy said: “Finding the bottle was interesting, but it was the note that really stopped us in our tracks. Someone took the time to leave a message for whoever might one day uncover it, never knowing if it would be found. The note captures an ordinary day in Derby’s history, yet today it feels incredibly special. It gives us a small but very personal connection with someone who worked on these buildings decades ago.”

The Liversage Trust’s refurbishment is transforming the historic almshouses into 17 modernised homes, carefully preserving the buildings’ heritage while ensuring they continue to provide high-quality accommodation for future residents.

The Trust is now hoping the discovery may help uncover more about the author of the note.

Anyone who recognises the name W H Braid, or remembers someone living at 3 Swarkestone Drive, Littleover, is invited to get in touch with The Liversage Trust.

After almost seven decades hidden beneath the staircase, one small note has become an unexpected link between the people who cared for the almshouses in 1959 and those preserving them today.

Almshouses on ITV News

Almshouses were in the national spotlight on ITV News on Monday 27 July 2026, showcasing the important role they play in providing affordable, community-focused housing across the country.

The coverage highlighted how almshouses continue to provide secure, affordable homes while fostering independence, friendship and a strong sense of community and included an interview with The Almshouse Association’s Chief Executive, Nick Phillips, filmed outside Ellison House almshouses in Windsor.

During the interview, Nick explained that almshouses are unique form of community housing and that society at large benefits as well as residents and when asked about how Government could help expand the almshouse model, he was clear:

“Ask Andy Burnham to amend the National Planning Policy Framework to include almshouses as recognised affordable housing. A win for all.”

ITV then asked Government for a statement and they stated:

“We will continue to consider how we can make it easier for almshouses to build more affordable homes, alongside investing £39 Billion for social and affordable housing to give people the homes they deserve .”

ITV also filmed at St John’s in Bath, Tiverton Almshouses in Devon, MyTrust in Birmingham, DAMHA in Tyne & Wear, Frith Almshouses in Sheffield, South Yorkshire, Sackville College in East Grinstead, Thomas Parsons Charity, Cambridgeshire and Wyggestons & Trinity Almshouses in Leicester, where residents shared their experiences of almshouse living and spoke about the positive difference it has made to their lives.

Nick Phillips said:

“Whatever I say about the almshouse movement and its importance could never match the passion and enthusiasm of the residents themselves. Their stories speak far more powerfully than I ever could. It’s encouraging to see ITV recognising the growing national interest in almshouses – not just as a source of affordable housing, but as thriving communities where people enjoy friendship, independence and a real sense of belonging.”

posted 30 July 2026

Roof Replacement Project

CASE STUDY: Rubgy’s St John’s Street almshouses roof replacement

Every almshouse charity faces moments when essential investment cannot be delayed. Whether responding to ageing buildings, unexpected structural problems or financial setbacks, securing the right support can be the difference between simply managing and safeguarding homes for generations to come.

As part of its commitment to members, The Almshouse Association provides grants and interest-free loans to help charities carry out vital repairs, improvements and development projects that might otherwise be beyond their reach.

This case study tells the story of the Butlin and Elborow Housing Trust in Rugby, whose trustees overcame significant financial challenges, unforeseen construction issues and the lasting impact of fraud to complete a major roof replacement programme. With careful financial management, determination and the support of an interest-free loan from The Almshouse Association, they have secured the future of six historic almshouses, ensuring their residents can continue to enjoy safe, comfortable homes for many years to come.

Background

The Butlin and Elborow Housing Trust (the Trust) manage two groups of almshouses in Rugby.

The first consists of six almshouses in Stephen Street. Originally built in 1860, they were replaced with the current properties in 1905. Each home provides single-storey accommodation with a lounge/kitchen, wet room and bedroom.

The second group comprises six almshouses in St John’s Street, built in 1885. These homes have a lounge, kitchen and bathroom on the ground floor, with a bedroom upstairs.

Historically, one group of almshouses was managed by St Andrew’s Church and the other by St Matthew’s Church. The two churches decided to link the two almshouses together to form the Butlin and Elborow Housing Trust.

The need for the project

For many years, the roof at the St John’s Street almshouses had received only limited maintenance. As a result, coping tiles had become loose, several roof tiles had slipped or cracked, and the roof had deteriorated to the point where a full replacement was necessary.

The Trust faced an additional challenge. A former trustee had dishonestly misappropriated the Trust’s financial reserves over a period of years, leaving the Trust in a difficult financial position. Although we had already taken out loans to stabilise our finances, replacing the roof represented a significant additional expense.

In 2024, the trustees began seeking quotations for the work and appointed Hall & Co., a reputable Rugby-based contractor. At the same time, we sought grant funding to help finance the project. Despite approaching a number of funders over several months, the only grant secured was £3,000 from the Baron Davenport Trust.

Carrying out the works

Because of existing commitments, Hall & Co. were unable to begin work until November 2025, despite an original planned start date of September.

Once work commenced, a number of unforeseen issues emerged.

The first concerned the tall brick chimneys. Although no longer in use since the installation of modern central heating, they were found to be leaning and structurally unsafe. As they were not protected by any preservation order, the trustees decided to take them down as this was the safest and most cost-effective option rather than rebuilding them.

Further inspection revealed that several structural timbers within the roof had rotted and required replacement.

Another challenge arose when matching replacement roof tiles proved impossible. New tiles had to be sourced at greater cost than anticipated. To preserve the appearance of the building and control costs wherever possible, the builders carefully salvaged many of the original tiles. New tiles were used on the front elevation facing the road, while reclaimed tiles were reused on the rear. The finished result blends well with the character of the building.

The project was also delayed by exceptionally poor weather throughout November and December, which slowed progress considerably. Throughout this period, the residents were extremely patient despite having scaffolding around their homes for several weeks.

An unexpected requirement

During the project, the local authority’s building surveyor identified that there were no firebreaks between the roof spaces of the individual dwellings.

This work had to be carried out before the project could be completed, adding an unforeseen but essential element to the contract and increasing the overall cost.

Funding the project

The total cost of the project was approximately £81,000. Our original loan application to The Almshouse Association was for £70,000 over ten years. However, by carefully managing our finances and contributing significantly from our own reserves, we ultimately only needed to borrow £40,000 which we will repay over seven years.

We are particularly proud that the Trust was able to fund almost half of the overall project cost itself, especially given the financial difficulties we had faced following the fraudulent loss of our reserves.

Without the support of The Almshouse Association, this essential project would simply not have been possible, and the condition of the roof would have continued to deteriorate.

Resident response

When the scaffolding was finally removed, the residents were delighted with the finished result. Several expressed their appreciation, with one resident commenting:

“It’s wonderful to come out of my front door without having to look up and wonder whether a roof tile might fall on my head.”

Their comments reinforced the importance of investing in safe, secure and well-maintained homes.

Acknowledgements

The trustees would like to express their thanks to The Almshouse Association for its financial support and encouragement throughout this project. Their assistance enabled us to complete essential works that will protect these historic almshouses and provide safe homes for our residents for many years to come.

Case Study by Roger Evans – Chair of Trustees

The Almshouse Association was delighted to support this project through its grants and loans programme, helping to ensure that another historic almshouse can continue its long tradition of providing homes and communities for those who need them most.

We would like to thank all the people and organisations who so kindly donate to The Almshouse Association and leave gifts in their Wills. Without their generosity, we would not be in a position to help support almshouse charities with their renovations and new builds.

The Almshouse Association awards loans and grants to our member charities every year. In 2025, £1,198,500 was approved in new loans and grants totalled £50,000. Charities pay no interest on the loans, just a small administration fee. As they make repayments on the loans over a ten-year period, the Association can continue to offer loans to charities year after year, meaning that your donations continue to support almshouses and their residents in perpetuity.

If you are interested in making a donation to The Almshouse Association or leaving a gift in your Will, please do visit our Support Us pages here.

posted 9 July 2026osted August 2026

Chairman joins Vista celebrations

Vista Court almshouses celebrate 25th anniversary

Sunshine and a strawberry tea helped residents and guests celebrate a special anniversary for an historic housing development in Westbury.

The almshouses at Vista Court were built 25 years ago by the Laverton Housing Trust. The trust, which manages 15 homes in Westbury set up with funds from the sale of almshouses in Prospect Square, built by the mill-owning Laverton family in 1886.

Resident Kathryn had a special reason to enjoy the birthday celebrations at Vista Court – she was the very first person to move into one of the seven bungalows 25 years ago...

…and 87 year old Kathryn even has her own Laverton connection – as a young woman she used to work at one of the town mills.

Trustees and residents were joined in their celebration tea by guests including Westbury mayor Carole King and The Almshouse Association chairman Willie Hartley Russell.

Vista Court, so called as it was built on the site of the old cinema in Warminster Road, was the second housing project by the Trust which also built and manages Laverton Court off All Saints churchyard.

Association Chairman Willie Hartley Russell with Kathryn

The idea behind the trust is the provision of safe affordable housing for local people in need. When it was first set up, applicants for the almshouses had to have a link to the Laverton mills – an echo of its historic connections.

Find out more about the work of the trust and about the almshouses at www.lavertonhousingtrust.org.uk

posted 30 July 2026

Hugh Bonneville Ambassador

The Almshouse Association is pleased to announce that actor Hugh Bonneville, currently serving as Vice Patron, has formalised an enhanced commitment to our charity by becoming an official Ambassador for the Association.

Hugh Bonneville’s advocacy will significantly help to elevate the profile of the historic almshouse movement and the broader community-led housing landscape.

As The Almshouse Association marks its 80th anniversary, his appointment as Ambassador comes at a defining moment for the thousand-year-old almshouse movement, as it builds on its remarkable heritage to meet the housing challenges of today and tomorrow.

“Almshouses have been an essential part of our landscape for centuries, helping generations of people live in a safe, secure and socially positive environment. Almshouses represent the best of our nation’s qualities, looking after neighbours in need. I am honoured to be a part of highlighting the work of The Almshouse Association, which is more essential now than ever before.”
Hugh Bonneville | Ambassador for The Almshouse Association

Our shared objective is to ensure that policymakers, local authorities and the public increasingly recognise almshouses as a highly credible pillar of modern regional development strategies. By scaling this community-focused model, we can directly support the delivery of government affordable housing targets while enabling residents to live longer, healthier and more connected lives.

On making the announcement, Nick Phillips, Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association said, “Having Hugh’s support is a significant milestone that will vastly raise the profile of the almshouse movement. Across the country, local people are in desperate need of safe, affordable homes they can rely on. With his advocacy, we are confident we can drive greater recognition for almshouses as an effective form of community-led housing that fosters good neighbours and supports national housing objectives.”

We are enormously grateful to Hugh for generously lending his time and respected voice to our cause. Together, we look forward to advancing the inclusion of almshouses in the national conversation.

credit – Photograph Gavin Bond

29 July 2026

16 new almshouses in central Cambridge

The Foundation of Edward Storey breaks ground on 16 new homes for people in housing need in Cambridge

For some, almshouses are still seen as a relic of a bygone era. In reality, today’s almshouse movement is thriving; combining centuries of charitable heritage with innovative, high-quality housing that meets the needs of modern communities. Across the country, new developments are challenging outdated perceptions and demonstrating that almshouses remain a vital and forward-thinking solution to housing need.

And we are pleased to report that another almshouse construction has just officially begun – this time, its 16 new one-bedroom almshouse apartments in Cambridge city centre. They mark a significant milestone for the Foundation of Edward Storey and it is also important to note that they were able to successfully argue for the removal of Section 106 contributions on this project.

Cocksedge Building Contractors have been appointed to deliver the scheme and are now on site, following a rigorous tender process led by Mole Architects in collaboration with Sherriff Tiplady cost consultants.

Designed for people aged 60 and over who cannot afford to buy or rent on the open market, the new homes will provide high-quality, affordable accommodation that supports independent living. The apartments have been carefully designed to be bright, spacious and energy-efficient, with a strong emphasis on sustainability and community.

Features include triple-glazed windows, air source heat pumps, and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery, helping to reduce energy use and keep running costs low. Residents will also benefit from a 24-hour warden call service and access to the facilities at the adjacent Storey’s House sheltered housing scheme.

In keeping with almshouse tradition, the development is arranged around a central courtyard to foster a sense of community. Research from Bayes Business School (2023) suggests that almshouse residents can live longer than peers of a similar socioeconomic background, with reduced social isolation and stronger community connections seen as key contributing factors.

Antony Warren, Chairman of the Foundation, said:

“With an ageing population and a chronic shortage of affordable housing in Cambridge, this development responds to a growing and urgent need. These new homes will help us continue the Foundation’s mission, supporting people to live in comfort and security, and making a meaningful difference to their lives.”

Planned development. Credit: Mole Architects Ltd

Ian Bramwell, director of Mole Architects said:

“This project builds on a tradition of almshouses, but reworks it for how people want to live today. The generous homes are arranged around a shared, planted courtyard that brings people together in a natural, everyday way, supporting independence while making it easier to feel part of a community.

The design takes cues from the surrounding red brick villas to create buildings that feel settled and familiar, using simple, durable materials that will age well. Each home is dual aspect, with views both into the courtyard and out towards the city, giving residents a strong connection to both community and place.”

Justin Buckingham, Construction Director of Cocksedge, said:

“We are delighted to have been selected to construct the new almshouse development which will be a wonderful addition to the accommodation provided by the Edward Storey Foundation. Whilst the site holds some logistical challenges, we will work closely with the local community to avoid disruption. As a regional main contractor, we are well placed to ensure that our supply chain includes local companies and encourage apprentice training, so the project feeds directly into the Cambridge economy. We look forward to working with Mole Architects to bring the thoughtfully designed scheme to life over the coming months”

The development is expected to be completed in spring 2028.

photo credit: Mole Architects Ltd

posted 23 July 2026

Wivenhoe Housing Trust breaks ground on six new almshouses

Construction has officially begun on six new almshouses in Wivenhoe, marking the first new almshouse development in the town for more than 50 years.

The new homes, to be known as Raven Court, are being developed by Wivenhoe Housing Trust on land behind Cross Farm, close to the fire station, Vine Parade shops and local bus services. Designed for local people aged over 60 who are in housing need, the development will provide secure, affordable homes that enable residents to remain part of the community they know and love.

The milestone follows more than 15 years of planning and determination by the trustees of Wivenhoe Housing Trust.

Peter Hill, Chairman of Wivenhoe Housing Trust, said:

“This is really exciting. We have been working towards this day for at least 15 years, when the trustees agreed that we wanted to create more almshouses in Wivenhoe and set about achieving that ambition. It will be a wonderful day next year when we finally welcome residents into their new homes.”

The land for the development was donated by Cala Homes as part of the planning agreement for its nearby Wivenhoe Gardens development. The provision of land for new almshouses formed part of the Wivenhoe Neighbourhood Plan, which was approved by local residents in 2019. Peter Hill and Vice-Chairman Bob Needham played leading roles in developing the plan.

Wivenhoe Housing Trust is a registered charity run by nine local trustees. In addition to the new development, it manages 13 existing almshouses at Jonathan Feedham Court and the historic Mary Ann Sanford Almshouses on Rebow Road, which were built in 1873.

The new homes at Raven Court will build on this long tradition of providing affordable, community-focused housing in Wivenhoe, ensuring that older people with local connections continue to have access to safe, secure and independent homes for generations to come.

Landmark partnership

A bold step forward for community-led housing

We are delighted to announce a landmark partnership with Innovate UK, the University of Suffolk, and the Knowledge Transfer Partnership, supported by £75,000 in funding.

This exciting initiative will strengthen our research capability and generate robust, evidence-based insights to support the future of almshouses.

Shaping the future of almshouses
The project will help position almshouses as the gold standard in community-led housing, championing their unique social and wellbeing benefits while raising awareness among policymakers, funders and the public. It will also strengthen engagement with government and key stakeholders, helping to unlock greater support for the sector.

We aim to place almshouses firmly at the forefront of affordable housing by fostering a more integrated, collaborative approach, bringing together national and local government, philanthropy and charity-led providers to deliver lasting impact.

Evidence and growth
A key focus will be building a strong evidence base to demonstrate the social value and return on investment of almshouses.
This partnership marks an important step in transforming perceptions of charity-led housing and ensuring more people can access safe, secure homes. We look forward to sharing updates as the project progresses.

photo: L to R: Gerry Harmon – Association PR and Engagement Manager; Dr Laura Reeves, visiting Fellow; Jenni Carberry, MSc Knowledge Transfer Partnerships Manager; Dr Alison Pooley, Associate Professor; Nick Phillips, Association CEO.

May 2026

The Road to restoration: Lessons from Baker’s Almshouses

CASE STUDY: Baker’s Almshouses, Stutton, Suffolk

When almshouse charities face major repair costs or seek to expand provision for people in housing need, financial support can make the difference between decline and long-term sustainability. As part of its member services, The Almshouse Association provides grants and interest-free loans to help charities maintain, improve and develop their housing for residents.

This case study highlights how, with the support of a £25,000 grant from The Almshouse Association and despite numerous setbacks along the way, through sheer determination, the trustees of the Baker’s Almshouses in Stutton were able to complete a full renovation of one of their almshouses.

The Baker’s Almshouses in Stutton have been providing homes since 1863. This charming row of five Grade II listed almshouses has served the local community for more than 160 years, but like many historic buildings, the passage of time had begun to take its toll.

When a new Board of Trustees was established in 2023, one of its priorities was to take a more strategic approach to caring for the almshouses. Rather than continuing with piecemeal repairs, the trustees wanted to protect the building’s heritage while improving the comfort and quality of life for residents.

An architect was appointed to develop a programme of works, including improving drainage around the building, repointing the brickwork and chimneys, and carrying out a full refurbishment of No. 4, which had become difficult to let in its existing condition.

Turning ambition into reality

The original project was ambitious, with an estimated cost of just over £141,000. The Almshouse Association awarded a £25,000 grant, and the trustees submitted numerous funding applications, but they were unable to secure enough funding to deliver the full programme.

Rather than delay improvements altogether, the trustees made the difficult decision to focus on refurbishing No. 4, ensuring that at least one home could be brought back into use for someone in housing need. The refurbishment included:

replacing the floorboards
installing underfloor insulation
removing an outdated pantry
fitting a new kitchen and bathroom
redecorating throughout.

Challenges along the way

As with many building projects involving older properties, the work proved more challenging than expected.

As the architect felt that the project was too small for him to remain involved, one of the trustees agreed to take on the role of project manager. Completion timescale was eight weeks, which seemed rather long for the amount of work involved but was agreed by the project manager. In the end, it was 15 weeks before the house could be occupied.
One of the main attractions for using the chosen building firm was that it was a large company with significant experience in dealing with old and listed buildings. Unfortunately, this did not prove to be the case. Most of the tradespeople were contractors and were working on multiple projects hence were often pulled off the almshouse project to fill gaps on other jobs.
The firm’s project manager was difficult to contact and when finally reached would give false promises regarding completion times and standard of work which fell short of expectations, requiring considerable time and persistence from the trustees to resolve outstanding issues.

To add to the external challenges, the trustee managing the project resigned before completion, placing additional pressure on the remaining trustees. But, despite all these setbacks, the trustees stayed committed to seeing the project through and ensuring the home was completed to a suitable standard.

Lessons for the future

Every project provides valuable learning, and Baker’s Almshouses was no exception. In putting together this case study, the trustees have been candid and expressed the importance of:

carrying out thorough due diligence when appointing contractors
ensuring specifications are crystal clear
maintaining regular communication throughout a project
being prepared to challenge issues as they arise.

Perhaps most importantly, the Board recognised that while trustees bring a wealth of experience and commitment, specialist external support is sometimes essential to deliver complex capital projects successfully.

Looking ahead

Although the journey was not without its difficulties, the refurbishment of No. 4 has created a warm, comfortable and attractive home that is once again available for someone in housing need.

The experience has also strengthened the trustees’ confidence and equipped them with valuable knowledge for future projects. Their commitment to preserving these historic almshouses means that Baker’s Almshouses will continue to provide safe, affordable homes for many years to come.

The Almshouse Association was delighted to support this project through its grants programme, helping to ensure that another historic almshouse can continue its long tradition of providing homes and communities for those who need them most.

If you are interested in making a donation to The Almshouse Association or leaving a gift in your Will, please do visit our Support Us pages here.

posted 9 July 2026

Where history meets ‘The Holiday’

Abbot’s Hospital, Guildford: Where history meets ‘The Holiday’ – with plenty of hospitality

What connects the hit film The Holiday, the King James Bible and some of Guildford’s happiest residents?

The answer is Abbot’s Hospital – the remarkable Jacobean almshouse that stands proudly at the top of Guildford’s High Street.

Rich in history, architectural beauty and community spirit, it continues to provide a welcoming home for its residents more than 400 years after it was founded.

Recently, members and Friends of the Almshouse Association enjoyed a fascinating guided visit to explore behind the beautiful gateway.

Led by our knowledgeable guides, Desmond and Colin, the group explored the history, heritage and enduring purpose of one of this extraordinary place.

The tour began with an unexpected Hollywood connection. Desmond explained that many almshouses include the word “hospital” in their title, derived from the concept of hospitality rather than medical care. During the filming of The Holiday in nearby Shere, a researcher unfamiliar with the historic meaning mistakenly identified Abbot’s as the nearest hospital location for cast and crew. Thankfully, neither Kate Winslet nor Jude Law arrived seeking emergency treatment!

Guests also learned about the remarkable life of George Abbot, the Guildford-born scholar and churchman who founded the charity in 1619. Abbot played a significant role in the translation of the King James Bible before becoming Archbishop of Canterbury. He remained deeply connected to his hometown and established the almshouse that continues to serve the community today.

The visit offered a wonderful opportunity to discover the chapel, admire historic features and artefacts, and learn how the Grade I and Grade II listed buildings have been sensitively adapted for modern living. Guests were particularly interested to hear about current and future projects that will help preserve the site for generations to come.

Desmond and Colin shared a wealth of stories and insights drawn from their experience as Governors of Abbot’s Hospital. Their enthusiasm, knowledge and engaging storytelling brought the history of the almshouse to vivid life. Thankfully, the Guildford Guys, who terrorised the town in the 1800s, no longer run amok on Bonfire Night.

A particular highlight was the opportunity to meet several residents. Their warm welcome and friendly conversations gave visitors a genuine insight into life at Abbot’s Hospital today and demonstrated the strong sense of community that makes the almshouse so special.

Our sincere thanks go to Ian Bowler, Master of Abbot’s Hospital, to our wonderful guides and to the residents for their kindness, hospitality and generosity in sharing their home with us.

To learn more about Abbot’s Hospital, visit abbotshospital.org

posted 6 July 2026