Housing LIN HAPPI Hour -Nick Phillips to host webinar

Association CEO, Nick Phillips, will be hosting the HAPPI Hour webinar, with Housing LIN on 17 June 2025.

In his blog (below), featured on the HOUSING LIN website, Nick explores the growing interest in the almshouse model and its significant role in community-led housing for older people.

It highlights recent developments, including recognition in government policy and award-winning projects like Appleby Blue. This year’s Research Workshop brought together leading voices to reflect on progress, examine the model’s unique strengths, and explore collaborative approaches within charitable housing.

Read on to find out more about the lasting impact of almshouses, the importance of evidence-based advocacy, and the next steps in building a sustainable, inclusive future for community-based housing solutions.

21/5/25 – Nick Phillips, Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association

The Almshouse Association Research Workshop – Collaboration and Co-partnership

Over the past decade, interest in the almshouse model has grown significantly, inspiring dedicated researchers to explore its positive impact on residents. Most recently, at a policy level, almshouses were cited in the government commissioned Older People’s Housing Taskforce report (opens new window) as one of a range of community-led, collaborative housing types for people in later life housing. And, in terms of new buildings, United St Saviour’s Charity’s award-winning development, Appleby Blue in Bermondsey, won last year’s National Housing Design Awards. Our second-year Research Workshop therefore provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on our progress over the past year and develop the next steps in our research journey.

Background

Previous research by The Smith Institute, the Housing Learning and Improvement Network (LIN), The Bayes Institute, and private funders has highlighted the profound impact of the almshouse model. Studies have demonstrated its influence on residents’ longevity, its economic value—including cost savings to society—and its positive effects on health and well-being (The Dunhill Medical Trust funded Almshouse Resilient Communities Project).

Earlier research findings achieved significant media and academic interest, strengthening the case for long-term support from funders, government, and the public. However, further evidence is essential to secure almshouses’ and the charitable housing sectors’ place in the future of housing. Equally important is preserving the rich heritage of almshouses and ensuring their historical significance is recognised in society.

Collaboration and co-partnership

At The Almshouse Association, we believe it is vital to prioritise charitable housing on the government’s agenda. By presenting robust, evidence-based research, we can showcase the profound benefits of almshouses and other charitable housing models—not only in improving well-being but also in delivering significant cost savings to society.

This year’s Research Workshop brought together an outstanding range of speakers from academia and the charitable housing sector. Representatives from The Cohousing Network, Intergenerational England, Old Hall Intentional Living, The NHF, The Open University, Suffolk University, and Southwark United Charities provided guests with a comprehensive overview of recent research and the diverse charitable housing solutions available. Each of these models plays a crucial role in addressing local housing needs, standing alongside almshouses in their commitment to offering an affordable housing choice and being a community ‘anchors’ that make a social and health impact. By pooling our knowledge and experiences, we can significantly enhance recognition for the sector as a whole.

While past research has illuminated key aspects of the almshouse model’s success, the Workshop discussions revealed deeper questions about the factors sustaining its longevity. Participants explored the unique qualities that define almshouses, the influence of their historical foundations, and the role of governance in enhancing residents’ health and well-being. The inclusion of other charitable housing models e.g., cohousing, intergenerational living, intentional living and Abbeyfield Societies, further enriched the conversation, offering a wider perspective on the diverse approaches within the sector. By examining the benefits and challenges of each, we gained a more nuanced understanding of the almshouse movement within the broader landscape of charitable housing and social housing provision.

The success of our future research depends on the ongoing dedication and collaboration of our partner charities and the wider charitable housing sector. We are confident that the insights gained from this Workshop will drive us closer to our shared goal—raising awareness, strengthening support for almshouses and charitable housing, and shaping a future of more inclusive and sustainable community living.

Since our Inaugural Workshop in 2024, we have been developing a strategic plan to ensure our research builds upon, rather than duplicates, previous studies—avoiding research fatigue while addressing key questions raised. Our goal is to consider all perspectives and insights, ensuring a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to inform current and future generations of almshouses.

This structured, multi-year approach ensures that our research remains impactful, data-driven, and aligned with the evolving needs of both almshouse residents and the broader charitable housing sector.

Next Steps

With several ongoing projects supporting our research, we have established a series of Research Networking Groups to collaborate on key initiatives. These groups will help accelerate our progress.

By addressing these research priorities and strategic steps, we aim to deepen our understanding of the almshouse model and the broader charity housing model, ensuring its continued success and support for future generations.

If you would like to get involved in the Research Networking Groups, please do get in touch with me at: gerryharmon@almshouses.org

Click  HAPPI Hour webinar to book your space on the webinar.

posted 22 May 2025

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

Housing Ombudsman – Complaints Procedure

[applicable to Registered Providers and charities that are registered with the Housing Ombudsman only]

Positive Dialogue between The Almshouse Association and the Housing Ombudsman

The Almshouse Association recently met with the Housing Ombudsman to raise our members’ concerns regarding the tone and complexity of recent correspondence. In particular, we highlighted issues with the length and intricacy of required submissions, as well as language that does not align with the charitable nature of the almshouse model.

We are pleased to report that the meeting was constructive. The Ombudsman’s team listened carefully and acknowledged the need to better understand the unique characteristics and language of almshouses. As a result, they are in the process of producing detailed guidance tailored specifically for almshouse charities, which will be made available shortly.

Additionally, we have been assured that any questions regarding submission requirements, including requests for deadline extensions, can be directed to the Housing Ombudsman. They have committed to responding to all such enquiries within five working days. A dedicated contact within the Ombudsman’s office will also be appointed to handle these queries directly.

For any related enquiries, please email: compliance@housing-ombudsman.co.uk

posted 15 May 2025

MEMBERS DAY 2025

TICKETS NOW SOLD OUT

The Almshouse Association Members Day 2025 will be held on
Thursday 19 June 2025
at the prestigious One Great George Street in Westminster, London, SW1P 3AA

Join us for a high-energy day filled with inspiring guest speakers, an exclusive Q&A session with our panel of experts and great networking opportunities.

OUR GUEST SPEAKERS

Jeremy Porteus
Chief Executive, Housing LIN
Penny Smith
Television and radio presenter, newsreader, journalist
George Courtauld
Architect and Generational Philanthropist
David Holdsworth
Chief Executive of the Charity Commission
Paul Excell
Chair, AI4C
& Court Ass. for The Worshipful Co.
of Inf. Technologists

PANEL OF EXPERTS

Liz Fathi
The Trust Partnership
Tim Rutherford
Stone King LLP
Carolyn Sims
Charity Bank
Tim Richardson
Quinquennial Inspections Ltd
Lisa Watson-Cook
Lester Aldridge LLP

TICKETS NOW SOLD OUT

Creating Homes and Communities

kindly sponsored by

Regulator updates guidance to help charities recruit trustees

The Charity Commission has refreshed its guidance on recruiting trustees (CC30).

The guidance redesign comes after the regulator’s research, with think tank and social sector research organisation Pro Bono Economics, revealed just 6% of trustees applied for their role via an advert. The report published last month indicated that more than half of charities relied on personal contacts to recruit new trustees.

The regulator is encouraging charities to use the guidance to help improve their recruitment and induction practices. The refreshed guidance focuses on practical steps charities can take to connect with a broader range of candidates, and to identify and remove barriers that may put people off applying for the role. The guidance also suggests considering a skills audit to test what the charity needs from its trustees.

The refreshed guidance encourages charities to write and keep under review their trustee role description and to distinguish between what is required and what can be learnt in the role. It highlights ways to reach more candidates such as posting ads via social media or using organisations that offer trustee finder services. It signposts a range of free resources to help charities reach as many people as possible but is clear that charities can also pay for trustee recruitment services.

The regulator has expanded the induction section of its guidance to help charities not only recruit successfully to the role but also retain new trustees. It encourages charities to discuss with each new trustee what information and learning they need to become an effective trustee, and how to support them with this, setting out a range of approaches.

As the recent research revealed, one in three trustees (29%) are asked to join their board by the chair and one in four are asked by another board member. Recruiting within known circles can contribute to identifying good candidates but limits the field, and difficulties can arise when boards have several personal connections. The guidance highlights how having a group of trustees who have the right mix of technical skills, knowledge of the sector the charity works in, community connections and first-hand experiences can create well-rounded boards and promote strong governance at charities.

Mazeda Alam, Head of Trustee Guidance at the Charity Commission said:

“It is fantastic that so many trustees recommend the role to others, and we know for some it is an essential way to fill vacancies.
“However, we want our refreshed guidance to get trustees thinking about how they can broaden their reach when recruiting to their board. Small changes like writing your trustee role description differently or re-considering what skills are really essential, could widen the net and land you a valuable, new addition – taking your board from strength to strength.
“Our casework has shown that it can be difficult to instil essential governance processes when there are multiple personal ties on a board. We’re also aware that some charities may not have the minimum number of trustees required by their governing document. We want our guidance to support trustees to avoid these risks and help open up trusteeship to all.”

The full guidance can be found here.

posted 14 May 2025

Celebrating the life of Phil Sweet D Day veteran

Municipal Charities are sad to announce that almshouse resident, Phil Sweet, who was 100 years old and one of the last survivors of the D Day landings, sadly died last week. 

Born on 25 October 1924 and died on 30 April 2025, Phil led a landing craft on Gold Beach on D Day (6 June 1944).

He was the longest and oldest resident of one of the Municipal Charities Almshouses in Stratford-upon-Avon.

In an interview with Midlands Today on his 100th birthday Phil mentioned that amazingly his father had survived the Gallipoli campaign. Last year Phil took part in the 80th Anniversary of D Day at the National Arboretum where he met the Duchess of Edinburgh and was interviewed by Sky News

https://news.sky.com/video/d-day-80th-anniversary-veteran-recalls-how-beached-ship-was-used-as-prisoner-of-war-camp-13149036

Phil recalls the following about his war time experience:

“I was sent to a place called Lochailort in the Highlands where I did six weeks of hefty nautical and ability training. Those six weeks were the toughest I have experienced in my life both physically and mentally. At the end of each week you had exams and if you were not good enough you would be dropped. But I lasted and was appointed an officer then sent to Troon for officer training for another six weeks and then appointed to a tank landing craft ready for the D-Day landings.

The war had been going for quite a considerable period of time for my training was in readiness for the D-Day landings the time of which we did not know then.

I was part of the initial wave that landed at the village of La Rivière as part of the Gold Beach landings. I was in a flotilla which were the first to go into the beach with two tanks on top of each other on the landing craft so that they could bombard the beach with shells as they were coming in to land. We didn’t lose anybody that day although the landing craft was damaged by the underwater objects as we were going in.

Then following the landing we were offloading equipment to the beaches and whilst doing so I had to go to the tented hospital at Bayeux with suspected peritonitis which turned out to be appendicitis.

I was sent to Plymouth to HMS Foliot, running all the movement of landing craft. We were tropicalizing (adding refrigeration and air conditioning) landing craft ready for the Far East but of course that collapsed because they dropped the atomic bomb.”

Along with the trustees, residents and staff of Municipal Charities, all the team at The Almshouse Association extend their sincerest condolences to Phil’s family.

Phil leaves a daughter and son and family.

posted 7 May 2025

Brother John’s Journey

85-Year-Old ‘Brother on a Bus’ Takes on UK-Wide Public Transport Challenge with Heart and Heritage

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.

click picture to view John’s route

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

[John has managed to secure a bed for the night in almost all of the locations apart from Cardigan, Cardiff, Bridlington, Newcastle, Bangor and Glasgow, so if you are able to help, please do drop the Hospital of St Cross a line via office@hospitalofstcross.co.uk ]

Clad in a traditional black cloak and cross, ‘Brother’ John is 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 900th 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.

John at home (in his everyday clothes!)

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 will record reflections on his journey, meet with locals and stay in historic almshouses, returning 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!

see also:

Brother John’s journey has also featured on GB News, BBC Wales and BBC One’s ‘Have I got News for You!

posted 30 April 2025, last updated 20 May 2025, last up

Policy & Governance update: May 2025

MAY 2025: A summary of the latest UK Government policy changes and news.

1.   Local Elections on 1 May 2025

A reminder that there are local elections across the country on 1 May. There are 1,641 council seats across 24 local authorities up for grabs. All seats on 14 county councils and eight unitary authorities in England will be also up for election.

Many of these positions are responsible for local services – including housing, planning and social care.

Fewer people vote in local elections than general elections, but this does not make them any less important – decisions affecting your almshouse may be made by your local county council. Remember to vote!

Following the passage of the Elections Act 2022, the local elections on 1 May will take place with mandatory voter identification (ID). Voters will need to show an acceptable form of photographic ID, as listed on the Electoral Commission website.

2. Awaab’s Law (Social Housing Regulation Act 2023)

Awaab’s law – part of the Social Housing Regulation Act 2023 – will begin to be rolled out in October 2025, and we recommend starting preparations now. Although the Act refers to tenants and landlords and to Registered Providers only, we believe it is best practice to adhere to the standards set.

From October 2025, social landlords will be required to address damp and mould hazards that present a significant risk of harm to tenants within fixed timescales. Additionally, they must repair emergency hazards, including those related to damp and mould, within 24 hours.

In 2026, these requirements will apply to a wider range of hazards, which have not yet been fully determined by the government.

3. Consultations

There are a number of consultations currently available that members might be interested in.

Deadline 20 June 2025.

Deadline 2 May 2025

  • If you are a registered Supported Housing Provider or Exempt please do consider either responding directly or via the Association to the consultation on the Supported Housing (Regulatory Oversight) Act 2023.

Deadline 15 May 2025

The Almshouse Association is currently preparing responses to these consultations and will share our submissions with members in due course.

4. Engagement with MPs

We’re pleased to report that there has been some encouraging engagement with MPs in recent weeks. Thanks to your efforts, several important questions have been raised in Parliament on behalf of almshouse charities. This is a significant step in ensuring our concerns and priorities are heard at the national level.

We would like to extend our sincere thanks to everyone who has taken the time to write to or email their MP. Your advocacy is making a real difference, helping to raise awareness and build support for the invaluable work almshouses do in communities across the country.

posted 30 April 2025

Grant funding of £3.2 million to advise churches on using land for housing

The Almshouse Association has been working with the Church of England to explore how church land can be more easily used for almshouse development. It’s a partnership that feels entirely natural – our two institutions share over a thousand years of interconnected history in caring for communities.

We’re pleased to share that the Church of England team leading efforts to deliver more affordable housing on church land have now officially launched their project – along with a new £3.2 million grant fund.

If you’re aware of a potential almshouse site on church land, this could be just the support needed to get things started.

Read more here:
🔗 https://www.churchtimes.co.uk/articles/2025/25-april/news/uk/grant-funding-of-32-million-to-advise-churches-on-using-land-for-housing

posted 30 April 2025