Almshouse Stories | The Almshouse Association

Older people’s housing recommendations supported by HAA

We were pleased to see PBC Today’s article on ‘Older people’s housing recommendations supported by the Housing and Ageing Alliance (HAA)’.

The Almshouse Association is on the working party and feeds into the work undertaken by the Alliance which unites individuals from local and national organisations with a shared goal: improving housing and living conditions for older people.

As part of HAA, The Almshouse Association applauds the work the Government are doing to support building more homes across the UK, setting ambitious and measurable objectives outlined in the Plan for Change: Milestones for Mission-Led Government (link).

It is crucial, however, to ensure these initiatives deliver tangible benefits for all members of society and, with the UK’s ageing population growing rapidly, its vital that action is taken immediately. Delays in implementing the Taskforce’s recommendations risk exacerbating pressures on health and social care systems. Such delays affect all family members, who are all too often providing additional support, with significant consequences for their own well-being and quality of life.

The taskforce’s report had four key aspects as recommendations:

“Think housing”

Most people desire to have their own homes for as long as possible. Physical and mental health do not always allow for this, and as these needs change, age-friendly housing can offer a better quality of life. This includes rightsizing to more appropriate housing for the individual or family and releasing underused rooms.

As such, more age-friendly housing will need to be constructed, and homes will need retrofitting to adapt to changing needs. The government has committed to this through increased funding for the ENABLE Build scheme in the recent £3bn support package.

“Address ageing”

While everyone ages, it can be difficult to see ourselves in this way, and making decisions for an aged future can be left until it is too late. The report states: “We tend to see senior citizens as a homogeneous group, despite today’s wide age span, and we need to recognise that growing diversity demands a range of housing options. A one-size-fits-all approach just will not work.”

“Promote wellbeing”

An approach that prioritises prevention is key, and so an environment that is already safe will prevent incidents or degradation that could see the elderly need a hospital, directly benefitting the health system by reducing the patient load as well.

“Create inclusive communities”

Incorporating the community in these processes can reduce feelings of isolation in the elderly, open up discussion of the other three messages, particularly “address ageing,” and enable people to look out for each other, stay active, and thrive in a local community with easy-to-access care and support.

We strongly advocate for the prompt enactment of the Taskforce’s comprehensive recommendations, many of which require minimal investment.

The full open letter can be read below.

joint-HAA-letter-re-OPHTF-140125 (1)Download

posted 10 February 2025

Letter from Westminster: Caroline Nokes MP

19th January 2025 Caroline Nokes Planning and development

In her recent Letter from Westminster, published in the Hampshire Chronicle, The Almshouse Association was pleased to see Caroline Nokes, MP for Romsey and Southampton North, specifically refer to almshouses and their inclusion in the formal definition of affordable housing.

Full letter below:

Caroline Nokes Letter from Westminster: tackling the failings of housing developers

“I WAS pleased to be able to meet the Minister for Housing and Planning this week to talk to him about a number of issues faced by the Romsey and Southampton North residents.

First and foremost on the agenda was the knotty problem of how to compel developers with extant planning permission to complete developments. Of course my focus was very much on the Brewery Site in Romsey, which all these years on remains a largely undeveloped brownfield eye sore in the heart of our town. Although the revised NPPF indicates there will be measures forthcoming to provide local councils with the power to decline further applications made by developers who fail to build out earlier planning applications in the authority’s area, there remains a question about whether that can include developers with a poor track record of completion in a wider area.

I also raised the ongoing challenges many housing developments have with developers and management companies failing to bring roads and public spaces up to adoptable standards. This means local authorities cannot take over responsibility for the areas and leaves residents having to deal with faceless and sometimes disinterested management companies, who are very hard to hold to account. The Minister is pursuing a range of options as to how this can be resolved, but there need to be minimum standards that developers are resolutely held to, so that Councils are not left picking up the bill for the failures of the large housebuilders.

I am very conscious that Romsey has a number of almshouses, which are much loved and a great model of housing. The Minister is looking closely at how almshouses can be included in the formal definition of affordable housing, which was raised during the NPPF consultation process by The Almshouse Association.

I have always said planning is the most contentious of subjects in this constituency, and it is vital that Ministers understand a one size fits all approach to planning policy cannot reflect the special characteristics of areas like ours. That is why I have no plans to stop badgering the Minister and know that this week I gave him a great deal of food for thought.

Rt Hon Caroline Nokes MP
Deputy Speaker of the House of Commons
Member of Parliament for Romsey and Southampton North

posted 10 February 2025

Almshouse research takes centre stage at Skinners’, London

The Almshouse Association is expanding its research agenda to further explore the broader charity housing sector, aiming to provide additional compelling evidence of the positive impact of almshouse living on residents and their communities.

This initiative seeks to identify synergies across various charitable housing models, assessing their benefits on residents’ well-being while demonstrating their effectiveness and cost efficiency for the state. The Almshouse Association believes that fostering collaboration across the sector will amplify our collective voice among policymakers, providing a stronger platform for partnership, innovation, and the continued growth of the charitable housing sector.

Last week, our annual research workshop at Skinners’ Hall in London brought together leading academics from institutions such as the University of Bristol, Cardiff University, the University of Suffolk, Oxford University, The Open University, and Universität Liechtenstein.

The event also drew together key figures from the charitable housing sector, including the CEO of Cohousing UK, a founder of Intergenerational England, a representative from an Intentional Living community, the National Housing Federation, as well as prominent housing researchers and policymakers. This gathering served as a catalyst for advancing research, fostering collaboration, and deepening insights into innovative housing solutions.

“The research workshop was an excellent opportunity for people from across the charitable and affordable housing worlds to come together to explore the range of models out there and share best practice. What shone through was the value of partnership working across these different models and how much can be achieved when we share insights and learn lessons from one another.”
Ed Barber, External Affairs Manager, National Housing Federation

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association, stated:

“We firmly believe that collaborating with other charitable housing models will help identify the key strengths of community-led housing, reinforcing its role in society. These models not only provide homes but also foster a strong sense of community, enhancing well-being, reducing loneliness and isolation, and delivering proven financial savings for society. The sector is a hub of innovation, offering effective housing solutions, and by working together, we can amplify our message— for most people, wellbeing is linked to being part of a community and we believe that the charity and co-housing sector have the solution to a good life model.”

“The research workshop was a vital opportunity to bring together leaders and innovators from across the housing sector, fostering collaboration and shared learning. It reinforced the importance of integrating different yet complementary housing models: almshouses, co-housing, intergenerational living, and more, to create communities that are inclusive, sustainable, and responsive to evolving social needs. By working in partnership, we can build housing solutions that not only provide homes but also strengthen connections, wellbeing, and support across generations.”
Charlotte Miller, Co-Founder of Intergenerational England

posted 4 February 2025

From Demolition to Renewal

Two new almshouses in Bedworth revitalise Nicholas Chamberlaine’s legacy.

On 6 November 2024, Jane Corrigan, Chairman of the Nicholas Chamberlaine’s Hospital & Sermon Charity welcomed everyone to the opening of the Chapel Street Cottages. She was delighted to announce that the Bedworth Almshouses had been extended for the first time in almost 200 years. A brick built public convenience building that was due for demolition in the centre of the town has been renovated and extended by the Charity that governs the almshouses. There are now two cottages in Chapel Street that will provide modern, warm and comfortable homes for local residents.

Jane thanked the Almshouse Consortium Ltd for all of their work in the preparation of the application to Homes England. She was delighted to report that Homes England had made a significant grant, without which the project would not have been viable. She further thanked the trustees of the Nicholas Chamberlaine’s School Foundation for their generous donation and for assisting with the purchase of the site a few years ago.

Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council expected the structure to be demolished when it fell into disuse but the Charity was successful in its bid to buy the building and the surrounding land.

Matthew White, Clerk to the Charity said:

“The trustees saw an ideal opportunity to be able to offer homes to elderly people and are delighted with the result. We are especially pleased that the new homes have a walkway that links them to the existing almshouse built in 1840.”

The official opening was conducted by the Mayor of Nuneaton and Bedworth and Charity trustee, Bill Hancox and the Mayoress. The Rector of Bedworth, the Rev. Dave Poultney, who is also a trustee, blessed the building. Architect Jason Brooks of Vagdia and Holmes and Builder Darren Williams of JRoc Construction were also in attendance. Guests included members of the Bedworth Society and Chamberlaine Court Care Home who are neighbours , as well as almshouse staff, residents and trustees. There are plans to complete the landscaping around the site and to provide extensive planting that will soften the area and give a green and pleasant view.

One of the prospective residents said at the opening,

“I absolutely love my new flat. It has a beautifully fitted kitchen and shower room and is just a short walk away from all the facilities in the town. I am looking forward to being part of the almshouse community.”

posted 22 Jan 2025

Christmas Legacy: gifts to 693 residents

Each Christmas, The Almshouse Association takes great joy in sending gift vouchers to almshouse residents aged 90 and above, a tradition made possible by a legacy left to the Association over 70 years ago.

In Christmas 2024, we distributed 693 gifts – our highest number to date! This milestone highlights the enduring power of a thoughtfully invested gift in a Will and the remarkable benefits of almshouse living, with a growing number of residents in their 90s and 100s enjoying longer, happy lives.

[photos above: Festive Whiteley Village CEO, Rachel Hill, hand delivers some of The Almshouse Association Christmas gifts to their residents]

_{Mrs Meadows, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust}

_{Resident, Cambridge Royal Albert Homes}

_{Joy, resident and her neighbour Ellen, Le Personne Homes}

_{Mr and Mrs Dummer, residents, Eleanor Palmer Trust}

_{Mr Gransby, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust}

_{Mrs Lawton, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust}

The Almshouse Association Christmas Fund traces its roots to a generous legacy left over 70 years ago by Major Allnatt, a successful businessman and philanthropist. Major Allnatt worked closely with Leonard Hackett, the Association’s founding General Secretary, and was deeply committed to supporting its mission.

He expressed a heartfelt wish for a small gift to be given to almshouse residents on Christmas Eve and chose to remain anonymous during his lifetime, until his passing in 1969.

The Almshouse Association carefully invested the funds he provided, enabling us to honour his name and legacy each year. Today, this takes the form of a gift voucher, sent to almshouse charities for their eligible residents to enjoy during the festive season.

_{Evelyn, resident, St Johns Winchester}

_{Mrs Bodger, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust}

_{Pat, resident, Fetcham United Charities}

_{Mrs Moorhouse, resident, Eleanor Palmer Trust}

_{Margaret, Resident, Louisa Lilley Almshouses}

A heartfelt thank you to all the clerks and trustees of almshouse charities for ensuring these special gifts reach residents on time. We also deeply appreciate you capturing and sharing the memorable moments.

Please keep the photos coming – receiving them is them is always a highlight of our day here at the Association!

posted January 2025

See also: Festive fun at Member Charities:

Case Study: The Almshouse Charity of Sir John Offley

The Almshouse Charity of Sir John Offley was awarded a £50,000 loan from The Almshouse Association rolling fund in the first quarter of 2024 to assist with the renovation of No.2 Greyhound Cottage, Madeley, Staffordshire.

History

The original almshouses which are in Madeley, Crewe, CW3 9PW were built in 1645, paid for by money left in the Will of Sir John Offley of Madeley. They were endowed and built under the terms of the Will of 1645. The properties were extended and improved by Hungerford, Baron of Crewe in 1889 and again in 1968. The properties were listed as Grade 2 in 1966.

Since 1968 they have been further improved with modern kitchens and bathrooms. Extensive re-roofing was carried out in 2016 at a cost of £35,000 and in 2023 the windows to the front of the properties which were iron framed in oak surrounds were replaced as per the originals at a cost of £46,000. A grant of £5,000 was received from Newcastle Under Lyme Borough Council towards the cost of the work with the balance coming from the Charity’s reserves.

Area

The village of Madeley has origins in the Saxon period and is mentioned in the Doomsday Book. It is an attractive village which has a mix of Local Authority and private dwellings served by a number of small businesses.

It was originally a mining village with Lycett Colliery being close to Madeley. The colliery was closed in 1957. Madeley is situated approximately five miles from Newcastle Under Lyme and Stoke on Trent with Crewe being approximately eight miles away, thus providing excellent road and rail links to all parts of the country. It has two primary schools and one secondary school.

The Project

The demand for low cost housing has, over the past few years, become a major issue with high rents and few suitable properties being available. The trustees have, for a number of years, looked for land on which to build additional almshouses but without success.

In 2019 the trustees decided to purchase two small properties in Madeley, No.1 Greyhound Cottage and Pool View. These properties were separated by No.2 Greyhound Cottage. The two properties were purchased and renovated at a total cost of £220,000 with the proceeds coming from the Charity’s reserves.

In 2023 No.2 Greyhound Cottage became available for purchase.

The trustees considered this an ideal opportunity to own the three properties. Nos.1 and 2 Greyhound Cottages are semi-detached cottages built in 1868. Pool Cottage, which has a passageway separating it from Greyhound Cottages, was built in the mid to late 1900 century.

No.2 Greyhound Cottage was purchased in February 2024 at a cost of £132,788. The property was in a poor state of repair and needed extensive renovation and repairs.

Quotes were obtained showing estimates of between £60,000 and £75,000. At the rear of the property is a substantial strip of land which could be suitable for future development.

_{The house needed to be completed gutted}

The improvements to the property comprised:

Damp course and complete re-plastering
Re-roofing
New staircase
New floors and coverings
Complete re-wiring
New plumbing and bathroom fittings
New kitchen
New central heating system
New interior and exterior doors
New windows throughout
New rainwater goods
Decorating

The extensive renovations of No.2 Greyhound Cottage were completed on 24 October 2024 and the trustees were delighted to welcome a young family into the property on 1 November 2024.

Please click here to view all the photographs of the project put together by the Charity.

The Almshouse Association

The Almshouse Charity of Sir John Offley writes,

“The Clerk contacted The Almshouse Association to enquire as to the possibility of a loan to assist with the costs of the renovation work on No.2 Greyhound Cottage. The help and assistance given by Fenella Hall during this process was exemplary. She gave clear guidance as to the procedure involved in making the application for a loan and the speed in which the application was dealt with was first class. Without the help of The Almshouse Association, the Charity would have had to wait many years to acquire the necessary funds to carry out the improvements required.

The Charity made the application on 19 February 2024 and the loan agreement was signed on 14 April 2024. This was quite exceptional. The trustees are extremely grateful and profound thanks go to Fenella and The Almshouse Association.”

Did you know?…

Funds used by The Almshouse Association to make loans to charities last in perpetuity. Loans to charities are interest-free with just a small setup fee. As they pay back the loan over a 10 year period, the Association is able to re-lend out the funds over and over again, ensuring more almshouses can be built or older almshouses can be preserved with a new roof or modernised with extensions or wet rooms. So if you are thinking about contributing to our rolling charity support fund by making a donation or leaving money in your Will, you will know that your money will be helping to change people’s lives for the better for many, many generations to come.

To find out more, please click here

posted January 2025

Case Study: Thomas White Cottage Homes

Replacement of deteriorated sash windows and frames

The Almshouse Association provided Thomas White Cottage Homes with a £80,000 loan towards the replacement of sash windows and frames with newly double glazed sash windows to the southern aspect of the Cottage Homes.

History

Thomas White Cottage Homes (2016) Charity is the modern incarnation of a charitable foundation created in 1886 by Thomas White, a wealthy Bromsgrove businessman and philanthropist.

Its almshouses in Bromsgrove, Worcestershire, are three substantial Victorian buildings, opened to its first residents in that year, and now, having been partially extended in 1993 comprise 14 self-contained flats, surrounded by communal gardens.

The Charity’s beneficiaries are, to quote from its constitution, “women in need of not less than sixty years of age, with a preference for such women who are resident at the time of their appointment in the area of the Ancient Parish of Bromsgrove”.

Background

The almshouses front to the south and their frontages have been exposed to sun and weather since their construction. All the windows were single-glazed, which caused noticeable condensation. The frames were constructed from Baltic Pine and despite the quality of the timber the frames and sills were deteriorating, requiring filling, painting and general maintenance, the cost of which was becoming prohibitive. In some cases sills were allowing water ingress into bay window areas, affecting internal decoration and plastering.

Research

The Charity began to explore the possibility of replacing window frames with double-glazed units, only to be halted in its tracks by the pandemic lockdown. After lockdown ended, the project was properly started and taken forward by the Charity’s Finance & General Purposes Committee.

The Charity was fortunate to have the voluntary help of Nick Reading, a retired architect who specialised in historic buildings who prepared a detailed report on the condition of the windows for the Charity.

Materials and Costing

The report laid out the options for and costs of replacement, advising that the most effective way to proceed would be to double-glaze the windows on the southern elevation of the almshouses, using UPVC units of a style which replicated the existing window frames and sills.

Although the use of timber replacement frames was considered, recent advances in the design of UPVC windows meant that the existing sash, and indeed the other windows could be replaced by frames which almost perfectly replicated the original design. UPVC was therefore an obvious choice, bearing in mind the cost advantage and the reduction in maintenance requirements.

Project Management

Our architect went on to support the Charity throughout the entire project, assisting in choosing appropriate products, programming the installation in conjunction with its suppliers, and generally keeping an eye on things as they progressed.

The Charity identified a local supplier, Diamond Windows (Droitwich) Ltd, experienced in similar projects and whose products matched the original framing so well that, after installation, it is difficult to distinguish from ten feet away whether the windows are painted timber or UPVC. The Charity appointed a project manager, and having the benefit of two recently retired commercially experienced solicitors within its ranks settled with our supplier a formal contract for the supply and installation of replacement windows.

Installation

A considerable amount of detailed planning went into the installation process, involving meetings and discussion between suppliers, trustees, warden, clerk, project manager and our supportive architect.

After taking into account the access needed by the suppliers to the site, the parking of vehicles, the potential disruption to the lives of residents and the vulnerability of some of them an installation plan was settled and implemented.

The installation went like clockwork, thanks in large part to the professionalism of our suppliers and their consideration for our residents, and was finished internally as well as externally to a high standard. Our suppliers’ carpenters were able to remodel and reuse the existing internal architraves so that from inside, as well as outside, the appearance of the windows has not changed. From start to finish the installation was completed in three weeks.

Funding

The project involved a significant and substantial financial commitment for the Charity. This involved preparation and careful consideration of fund availability and of budgets over future years.

Help was sought from grant-giving or donating local charities which provided approximately one third of the overall cost, whilst the balance was funded by an interest-free loan from The Almshouse Association.

Overview

The overall success of the project is down to:

the combination of expert advice throughout on all aspects of it,
a proper contractual arrangement between relevant parties so that each knew its obligations and responsibilities,
detailed and unhurried planning involving everyone concerned,
and an experienced and reputable supplier.

The installation of the new windows has delighted the Charity’s residents.

The condensation problem from which flats suffered has been considerably reduced, the flats are warmer and can be more easily ventilated, and the reduction in noise from the busy road to which the properties front is most noticeable. All of which has improved the quality of life within the Charity’s almshouses, for the benefit of all of its residents.

Many thanks to Malford Harris, Clerk & Treasurer of Thomas White Cottage Homes (2016) Charity for providing us with this case study. More case studies can be accessed here.

Did you know?…

To find out more, please click here

posted January 2025

Garden room for Hedger’s residents

Formal Opening of Hedger’s Almshouses New Garden Room – August 2024

Hedger’s Almshouses (founded in 1797) have been in Merrow since 1963. Until recently, they not had a permanent communal space where residents could socialise together. Happily, with the generous help from Your Fund Surrey Small Community Projects, Guildford Poyle Charities, Guildford Lions Club and The Mercers’ Company, they are now delighted to be able to offer their residents a beautiful new garden room.

The Charity is still exploring all the uses the room might be put to, but primarily it is somewhere for residents to relax and where friends and family can join them.

The official opening on Saturday 24 August was attended by residents and their guests, trustees old and new, funders, local dignitaries and friends of the charity. Despite the dreadfully wet weather, they were able to celebrate this exciting new chapter in the Charity’s story.

_{Edward Martineau, Chair, delivering his speech}

Chair, Edward Martineau, welcomed everyone and after his short speech he handed over to Cllr George Potter, whose support was instrumental to the project, to say a few words. Simon Ling, treasurer of The Almshouse Association, cut the ribbon to formally open the new garden room and guests enjoyed a delicious buffet prepared by one of our trustees.

The original idea for a garden room was first floated in late 2023 by, trustee, Sue Tester. It was her vision to have somewhere for residents to get together and socialise. Having canvassed the residents’ opinion and got the other trustees on board with the idea, Sue began to look for possible sources of funding. She identified Your Fund Surrey in February and contacted local County Councillor, George Potter to see if he would support an application. He enthusiastically agreed to do so and the application was made later that month.

The trustees were thrilled when the funding for the full amount requested was approved in April 2024 covering the cost of the base, the building and its electrics. Wasting no time the building was ordered with the base being laid on 29 April.

With the building itself ordered, thoughts turned to furnishings and applications were made to Guildford Lions and Guildford Poyle charities. Again, they were delighted when the applications were approved and with the money granted, were able to buy eight chairs, two coffee tables, a unit to house a kettle and mugs and a portable heater.

_{lights o}_n,*_{ready for entertaining}*

Finally, they realised we needed an extension to our nonslip path, with a step up to the building and handrail for extra safety. An application was made to the Mercers’ Company in June. It was approved in July and the path was laid just in time for the opening.

The Charity, originally set up in south London, moved to Merrow after its property suffered damage in World War II. There are eight purpose-built bungalows offering affordable accommodation for older single women with a connection to Guildford who are able to live independently.

posted 22 January 2025

Association’s Section 106 campaign

The Almshouse Association continues to apply pressure to the Government to have almshouses recognised as affordable housing so that S106 funds can be made available to all almshouse charities to build more homes for people in need.

CEO of The Almshouse Association, Nick Phillips and PR & Engagement Manager, Gerry Harmon recently met with our engagement partners, Connect to discuss our political strategy and advance efforts to inform MPs about the value of almshouses.

Beyond addressing the critical need for affordable housing, research highlights the broader benefits of almshouses: community living enhances residents’ quality of life and reduces their reliance on medical services. Additionally, most almshouses are managed by volunteers, creating further cost savings for the Government.

Encouragingly, increasing numbers of MPs in Westminster are lending their support to the campaign. Among them is Labour MP Neil Coyle, whom we thank for raising the issue in Parliament once again. His efforts prompted a response from Matthew Pennycook:

“As part of the recent consultation on proposed reforms to the National Planning Policy Framework, the government sought views on whether changes were needed to the definition of ‘affordable housing for rent’ to make it easier for organisations that are not Registered Providers, including almshouses, to develop new affordable homes.

While the government are committed to making it easier for almshouses to develop new affordable homes, we ultimately decided against extending the definition to capture almshouses for the reasons set out in our response to the consultation which can be found on gov.uk here.

Informed by the points raised in the consultation, the government will actively explore options in future changes to national policy related to decision making.

For those landlords who wish to register with the Regulator of Social Housing, there is no bar to registration because of size. Registered providers of social housing must meet standards that ensure tenants live in homes that are good quality and well-maintained and that landlords are well-managed and remain financially viable. The Regulator is operationally independent and has designed a registration process that seeks to ensure providers are able to meet its standards once registered.“

OUR NEXT STEPS

The Almshouse Association has now agreed a programme of communication and engagement with MPs and Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG). Our asks include:

Including almshouse charities in the definition of affordable housing without the requirement to become Regulated Housing Providers.

Exempting almshouses from the Selective Licensing charges.

Working with The Almshouse Association to recognise a Code of Conduct that is appropriate to the almshouse model.

We will be inviting The Charity Commission/MHCLG/Regulator and others to a round table event in Westminster. Date TBC.

We encourage all members to keep reaching out to their local MPs, whether by inviting them to events or arranging a brief visit to meet trustees and enjoy a cup of tea with residents.

posted 9 January 2025

CEO Guest Speaker at Weavers Charter Dinner

Worshipful Company of Weavers Charter Dinner

In December 2024, Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association, had the honour of serving as a guest speaker at the Worshipful Company of Weavers’ Charter Dinner. The event celebrated and reflected on the charitable initiatives carried out by London’s livery companies.

Other speakers included David Chalk, Sheriff of the City of London, who joined the Drapers’ Company in 1982 becoming a Liveryman in 1986 and elected to the Court in 2008, and Rebecca Ridley, Upper Bailiff at Weavers.

Nick delivered a passionate speech on the transformative impact almshouses have on residents’ lives and emphasised the crucial role livery companies play in sustaining and advancing this invaluable charitable model.

The term “livery” comes from the special dress worn by retainers of a nobleman. A livery company is a type of guild or professional association that originated in medieval times in London. Livery companies comprise London’s ancient and modern trade associations and guilds, almost all of which are styled the “Worshipful Company of” their craft, trade or profession.

Livery companies evolved from London’s medieval guilds, becoming corporations by royal charter responsible for training in their trades, as well as for the regulation of aspects such as wage control, labour conditions and industry standards.

From their inception, livery companies cared for their members in sickness and old age by the giving of alms. Today, they continue to support both their members, and wider charitable aims and activities such as education and training. Numerous educational establishments in England were founded by and retain association with livery companies, among the best-known being the Haberdashers’, Merchant Taylors’ and Skinners’ schools.

Most livery companies also maintain proud affiliations with regular and reserve units of the British Armed Forces, providing links between civilian and military life.

There are 111 livery companies in total. They play a significant part in the life of the City of London (i.e. the financial district and historic heart of the capital), not least by providing charitable-giving and networking opportunities. Liverymen retain voting rights for the senior civic offices, such as the Lord Mayor, Sheriffs and Common Council of the City Corporation, London’s ancient municipal authority with extensive local government powers.

The Worshipful Company of Weavers is the most ancient of the Livery Companies in the City of London. It existed in the year 1130, and was perhaps formed earlier. The company received a Royal Charter in 1155.

At present, the Company retains a connection to textiles through its contributions to the textile industry. It has, however, like most other Livery Companies, evolved into a charitable institution rather than remaining a trade association. The Company ranks forty-second in the order of precedence of the Livery Companies. Its motto is Weave Truth With Trust.

6 January 2025