Announcing the 2026 Awards recipients!

Celebrating innovation, inspiration and community

We are delighted to announce the 2026 Almshouse Association Award recipients, celebrating projects completed in 2025 that demonstrate innovation, imagination, care and an unwavering commitment to residents and their communities.

Following a rigorous judging process, including visits to almshouse charities across the country, the Awards panel was impressed by the exceptional quality and diversity of this year’s entries. From breathing new life into neglected historic buildings to creating sustainable new homes, developing beautiful gardens and finding innovative ways to strengthen communities, these projects demonstrate the continuing relevance and vitality of the almshouse movement.

This year’s awards recognise achievements across three categories: Inspirational Homes, Gardens & People, and Innovation for Living. Alongside Distinction and Highly Commended awards, a number of projects have also been recognised for their outstanding contribution.

Here are this year’s recipients.

GARDENS AND PEOPLE AWARD

Sackville College – Distinction

Sackville College has created an outstanding 100% organic kitchen garden that provides residents with fresh, seasonal produce grown on site.

The garden produces a wide variety of fruit, vegetables and herbs, with residents involved in choosing what is grown. A door-to-door delivery service ensures that everyone can benefit, including residents with limited mobility.

The project combines sustainability, nutrition and wellbeing. Rainwater harvesting, composting, crop rotation and organic growing methods support biodiversity and minimise waste. A plant stall at the college gates also generates income to fund the garden, making the project remarkably self-sustaining.

Beyond the food itself, the garden has become a social focal point — creating opportunities for conversation, engagement and connection with nature.

Dr Radcliffe’s Almshouses – Recognised

At Dr Radcliffe’s Almshouses in Steeple Aston, two historic almshouses dating from 1660 have benefited from the replacement of inadequate side porches with carefully designed, historically sympathetic extensions.

Using local Cotswold stone, timber windows and traditional craftsmanship, the new entrances improve the appearance and functionality of the Grade II-listed buildings while providing residents with warmer, safer and more accessible entrance spaces, as well as valuable seating and storage.

The work was undertaken while residents remained in their homes, including one resident aged 95, with the contractor managing the project with almost no disruption to daily life. Unexpected drainage discoveries added to the challenges, but the completed project successfully combines heritage conservation with practical improvements for residents.

Jesus Hospital Charity – Recognised

Jesus Hospital Charity has transformed an overlooked area at the James Ravenscroft Almshouses in Barnet with a new living wall and landscaped pond.

The project has created a peaceful garden space for residents and staff, turning a previously plain historic wall into a vibrant feature surrounded by planting and wildlife.

The pond and living wall are designed to support both wellbeing and biodiversity, encouraging pollinators and amphibians while providing residents with an attractive place to relax and meet.

The planting had its challenges: after discovering that the wall received prolonged, intense sunlight, the gardening team adapted their plans and replaced the original planting with hardier, drought-tolerant species.

INSPIRATIONAL HOMES AWARD

Nicholas Chamberlaine’s Hospital and Sermon Charity – Highly Commended

In Bedworth, Nicholas Chamberlaine’s Hospital and Sermon Charity has transformed a derelict former public convenience next to its historic almshouses into two high-quality one-bedroom cottages.

Once a neglected and vandalised building that had become an eyesore and a focus for anti-social behaviour, the site has been turned into attractive, secure homes that fit seamlessly alongside the historic almshouses. The project involved significant challenges, including conservation-area restrictions, the proximity of a Grade II* listed building and unstable ground discovered during construction.

The result is a striking example of turning a community liability into an asset, while creating two new homes and extending the supportive community enjoyed by existing residents.

Before
Opening ceremony
New kitchen

The Charity of Sir Thomas & Lady Kytson – Commended

At Kytson Cottages in Hengrave, Suffolk, the Charity of Sir Thomas & Lady Kytson has undertaken a sensitive programme of restoration to improve three historic Tudor cottages.

The project has dramatically improved thermal efficiency and resident comfort while respecting the buildings’ heritage. Inefficient heating systems were replaced with wood-pellet stoves, draughty doors were renewed and natural lambswool insulation was introduced. Traditional lime plaster, Suffolk pargetting and locally sourced materials were used to protect the historic character of the cottages.

The project also placed strong emphasis on sustainability, traditional craftsmanship and resident wellbeing, with the works carefully planned to minimise disruption to residents, including those with health and mobility challenges.

Edward Mayes Trust – Commended

The Edward Mayes Trust has completed a major refurbishment of the remaining four cottages at Inghams Almshouses in New Mills, High Peak.

The six Grade II-listed cottages date from 1880 and form an important part of the town’s heritage. The extensive programme has addressed years of piecemeal repairs, providing new roofs, rewiring, improved heating and plumbing, modern kitchens and accessible bathrooms while preserving the buildings’ Victorian character.

The project has also improved energy efficiency and safety, helping secure these historic homes as affordable housing for local people for generations to come. Considerable care was taken to support residents through the process, including carefully managing decanting and working around the challenges presented by the age and condition of the buildings.

The James Charities – Recognised

At St Clement’s Church in Nechells, Birmingham, The James Charities has created ten new independent-living apartments while restoring the historic Victorian façades and original church entrance porch.

The new homes form part of the existing almshouse community and include level access, accessible wet rooms, lift access and facilities designed to support independent living. The project has also created improved communal areas, covered walkways and a landscaped courtyard.

Sustainability has been central to the development, with air-source heat pumps, underfloor heating, solar panels, high levels of insulation and mechanical ventilation with heat recovery. The courtyard has also been designed as a biodiverse urban sanctuary, with native planting and habitats for birds, bats, hedgehogs and insects.

Perhaps most importantly, the project was developed through extensive consultation with residents, staff, trustees, neighbours and local councillors, helping create a strong sense of shared ownership.

MY Trust – Recognised

MY Trust has transformed Foster House in Solihull, formerly Alexandra Court, from a closed extra-care facility into 14 new homes for older people.

The original building, which had contained 21 small studio apartments, closed in 2024 as changing care models and rising operating costs made its previous use unsustainable. Rather than lose a structurally sound building, the Trust took the opportunity to redesign and repurpose it.

The result is two bungalows, four two-bedroom apartments and eight spacious one-bedroom homes, all designed to support independent living. Residents were consulted throughout the process to help ensure the new homes met their needs.

The redevelopment demonstrates how existing buildings can be adapted creatively to meet changing housing needs while making the best possible use of an existing asset. The newly transformed building has also been renamed Foster House in honour of Betty Foster, a much-loved former resident and long-standing trustee and advocate for the Trust.

INNOVATION FOR LIVING AWARD

William Lovett’s Almshouse Charity – Highly Commended

William Lovett’s Almshouse Charity has taken a bold approach to the future of almshouse living in West Haddon, Northamptonshire, by creating six new, highly sustainable bungalows for older residents.

The new homes enable older residents to move from unsuitable two-storey Victorian almshouses into accessible, energy-efficient homes designed for long-term independent living. This, in turn, allows the original Victorian terrace to be refurbished and reopened to a wider age range, creating a new mixed-age community and effectively doubling the local almshouse provision.

The development incorporates ground-source heating, solar PV, battery storage, EV charging and rainwater harvesting, alongside private garden terraces and accessible wet rooms.

The project is the culmination of more than seven years of work by the charity, including major changes to its structure and objectives, a lengthy planning process, securing Registered Provider status and raising more than £1 million in funding.

It is an ambitious example of how a small, historic almshouse charity can evolve its model to respond to the housing needs of both older and younger people.

Celebrating the almshouse movement

Taken together, these projects demonstrate the extraordinary range of work taking place across the almshouse movement.

They show that innovation does not have to mean abandoning tradition. Historic buildings can be restored for another generation; new homes can be designed around independence and community, gardens can improve both wellbeing and biodiversity, and existing buildings can be reinvented to meet changing needs.

Above all, this year’s Award recipients demonstrate what can be achieved when trustees, residents, staff, architects, contractors, volunteers and local communities work together with a shared purpose.

We warmly congratulate all of our 2026 Award recipients and everyone who contributed to these outstanding projects.

posted 17 September 2026

A new chapter for Manuden Almshouse Trust

The Manuden Almshouse Trust in Essex has handed the keys to a new family home following the successful purchase of two brand-new properties in Manuden Village.

James, Georgia and their daughter Lily-Rae were delighted to receive the keys to their new home, marking the beginning of an exciting new chapter for both the family and the historic almshouse charity.

The purchase follows a long-term project that began in 2013, when the Trust took the difficult decision to sell its original Grade II listed almshouses at 45 to 53 The Street, Manuden. The buildings were beyond economic repair for the charity, and the funds from their sale were carefully invested until a suitable opportunity became available within the village.

That opportunity came through a new development at Narley Field Road. Under a Section 106 Agreement, the two new homes form part of the affordable housing provision for the development, allowing the Trust to continue its charitable purpose of providing homes for local people.

The remaining Trustees, Matthew Hardy and Julian Eustace, have overseen the project through to its successful conclusion before handing over the management of the Manuden Almshouse Trust to Legacy East Almshouse Partnership (LEAP).

Matthew Hardy said: “It is wonderful to see this project finally come to fruition and to be able to provide a new home for James, Georgia and Lily-Rae. After such a long journey, seeing a young family receive the keys and begin their life together here in Manuden makes it all worthwhile.”

James and Georgia, both in their early 20s, had been living with their young daughter in a single room at a friend’s home while waiting to reach the top of the housing list. With another baby due in December, the opportunity to move into their own home could not have come at a better time.

The countryside location and limited transport links meant the homes were not as popular as other affordable housing options, but for Georgia and her family, Manuden was the perfect location. Her mother lives in the neighbouring village, allowing the family to remain close to their support network.

James works as a tree surgeon and landscape gardener, while Georgia is a full-time mum. Their new home has two double bedrooms, a spacious kitchen and dining area, a large lounge, ground-floor cloakroom and bathroom. Designed for modern living, it also benefits from solar panels and an all-electric energy system.

Julian Eustace said: “The original almshouses had been part of Manuden for many years, so it was important to us that the charity could continue to provide homes within the village. We are delighted that the Trust’s assets have been reinvested in a way that secures its future and enables another generation of local people to benefit.”

Management of the Manuden Almshouse Trust has now passed to Legacy East Almshouse Partnership (LEAP), which manages 18 charities across East Anglia and provides homes for more than 80 residents aged from one to 90.

The successful completion of the project ensures that the Manuden Almshouse Trust can continue its long-standing charitable purpose while providing high-quality, energy-efficient homes for local people well into the future.

posted 14 September 2026

Policy & Governance update: September 2026

September 2026: A summary of the latest UK Government policy changes and news.

1. A new Government and changes at Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG).

There has been a significant change in Government, with Andy Burnham becoming Prime Minister on 20 July 2026.

The new administration has also brought changes to the ministerial team at the MHCLG.

Angela Rayner has returned as Secretary of State for Housing, Communities and Local Government, with Matthew Pennycook remaining in post as Minister of State for Housing and Planning. The department also has a number of other new ministers with responsibilities covering homelessness, communities, local government, devolution and housing.

Most recently, Tom Riordan has been appointed as the new Permanent Secretary at MHCLG, taking up the role on 21 September 2026. Tom previously served as Northern Growth Envoy and Chief Executive of Leeds City Council.

The new Government has placed a strong emphasis on housing, devolution, local government and increasing the supply of social and affordable homes.

  • The Almshouse Association has written to Prime Minister Andy Burnham and Angela Rayner to introduce the work of the almshouse sector and highlight the particular challenges faced by almshouse charities.

    We will continue to engage with Ministers and officials to ensure that the distinctive nature of almshouse charities is understood when new housing policy is developed. This includes our ongoing priorities around selective licensing, Section 106 and securing appropriate recognition of almshouses within the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF).
  • Andy Burnham has written to the Association to say he will be viewing any support to reduce homelessness in a very positive light.

    We will take him at his word and continue dialogue with Government around the recognition of charity housing in policy. Sadly, the latest review of the NPPF does not address our concerns. We will keep members informed of progress and may need your help in keeping almshouses on the Government’s agenda.

2. Awaab’s Law – Phase 2 coming into force

The second phase of Awaab’s Law comes into force on 30 November 2026.

Phase 2 will extend the requirements to a wider range of hazards in social housing, including:

  • excess cold and excess heat
  • falls, including falls on stairs and between levels
  • structural collapse
  • fire and explosions
  • electrical hazards
  • domestic hygiene hazards.

The rules introduce specific timescales for social landlords to investigate and address hazards. For example, emergency hazards must be investigated and, where necessary, made safe within 24 hours.

What does this mean for almshouse charities?

It is important to remember that Awaab’s Law applies to social housing tenancies.

Almshouse residents generally occupy their accommodation under licences rather than tenancies, meaning that Awaab’s Law does not directly apply to almshouse charities in the same way as it does to registered social landlords.

However, the underlying principles are highly relevant to the housing provided by almshouse charities.

Almshouse charities should continue to have clear procedures for identifying, reporting, assessing and addressing hazards such as damp, mould, electrical problems, falls and other health and safety risks.

The Government has now published its Phase 2 guidance, which may also be useful for almshouse charities when reviewing their own procedures.

3. Free Training

The Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is offering new, free data protection training for SMEs.

Data Protection Essentials is designed for small organisations and comprises 13 bite-sized modules, each taking 10 to 15 minutes, which participants can complete at their own pace. It covers common activities, including:

  • Sharing information with others.
  • Managing records securely.
  • Reducing the risk of data breaches.

4. National Lottery Funding

The Department for Culture, Media and Sport launched a call for evidence on the future of National Lottery good cause funding.

DCMS says it wants to hear from the public on how National Lottery funding can better align with modern priorities, reach the areas that need it most and how NL can reduce bureaucracy. Views are welcomed from individuals and organisations across the UK.

Deadline is 23 September 2026.

Should you have any queries regarding any of the above information, please do not hesitate to contact our Policy, Planning and Engagement Manager via alicemorrey@almshouses.org

posted 10 September 2026

Policy & Governance update: August 2026

AUGUST 2026: A summary of the latest UK Government policy changes and news.

1. Revised Consumer Standards published

The Regulator of Social Housing has published its final decision following consultation on changes to the Consumer Standards.

All of the below come into force on 1 October 2026

  • The revised Transparency, Influence and Accountability (TIA) Standard – click here
  • The new Competence and Conduct Standard – click here
  • The updated Consumer Standards Code of Practice – click here
  • The Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements (STAIRs) – click here

The changes are intended to strengthen transparency, improve professionalism across the sector and give social housing residents greater access to information about their landlord.

Key changes

  • Greater access to information – Registered providers will be required to comply with the new Social Tenant Access to Information Requirements (STAIRs), making it easier for residents to request information about the management and performance of their landlord. The information request requirements will be introduced in phases, giving providers time to prepare.
  • A revised Transparency, Influence and Accountability Standard – The updated TIA Standard places greater emphasis on engaging meaningfully with residents, listening to feedback and demonstrating how resident views influence decisions. Providers must ensure complaints are handled effectively, residents are kept informed and opportunities exist for scrutiny and challenge.
  • New Competence and Conduct Standard – Alongside the revised TIA Standard, the Regulator has introduced a standalone Competence and Conduct Standard. Registered providers must ensure relevant staff have the appropriate skills, knowledge and behaviours, maintain policies for learning and development, and adopt a code of conduct. Qualification requirements for certain senior housing managers and executives will be introduced through a phased implementation programme.
  • Updated Code of Practice – The Consumer Standards Code of Practice has been revised to reflect the new standards and to provide clearer guidance on how providers can demonstrate compliance during regulatory inspections.

What this means for almshouse charities

Registered provider almshouse charities should begin reviewing their policies and procedures ahead of October 2026.

In particular, trustees should consider:

  • how resident information requests will be managed
  • whether resident engagement arrangements meet the revised Transparency, Influence and Accountability (TIA) Standard
  • whether staff competence and learning policies require updating
  • whether a staff code of conduct is in place
  • whether any senior roles fall within the new qualification requirements.

The Regulator has confirmed that implementation should be proportionate to the size and complexity of each provider, recognising that smaller organisations will meet the standards in different ways to larger housing associations.

The Almshouse Association will continue to produce guidance and template documents to help registered provider members prepare for the new requirements.

2. Competence and Conduct Standard confirmed

The Regulator of Social Housing has also published the final consultation response to the Competence and Conduct Standard, which comes into force on 1 October 2026. The new standard is designed to improve professionalism across the social housing sector by ensuring that staff have the skills, knowledge, experience and behaviours needed to deliver high-quality services to residents.

The standard applies to registered providers of social housing. Providers will be expected to:

  • ensure relevant staff are competent to carry out their roles;
  • have a written policy covering learning and development, performance management and addressing poor performance;
  • adopt and maintain a code of conduct for relevant staff;
  • involve residents in reviewing these policies; and
  • ensure senior housing managers and executives hold, or are working towards, an approved housing management qualification where required.

The Regulator has also confirmed that the Competence and Conduct requirements will sit within a standalone standard, rather than being incorporated into the Transparency, Influence and Accountability Standard, giving them greater prominence. There will be transitional periods for the qualification requirements to allow providers time to comply.

What this means for almshouses

For most almshouse charities, the immediate priority is to review whether existing policies, staff training and governance arrangements meet the new expectations.

Qualification requirements only apply to those staff and executives who fall within the scope of the standard, and smaller providers have a longer implementation period.

The Almshouse Association will continue to provide guidance and practical resources to help registered provider members understand which roles are affected and what actions they need to take ahead of the implementation deadlines.

Members may also wish to familiarise themselves with the Qualifications Toolkit.

3. Updates to Charity Commission Pages

The Charity Commission has published updated guidance on ‘How to make changes to your charity’s governing document (CC36)’ for CIOs, unincorporated associations, and trusts in more detail.

Previously the unincorporated associations and trusts guidance was combined; these are now two separate pieces of guidance. The updated guidance includes more detail about:

  • managing conflicts of interest
  • giving notice of or consulting on changes
  • benefits to trustees and others.

For the CIO and unincorporated associations guidance there is more detail about the role of members in these decisions.

Improving services

The Charity Commission has published a call for evidence inviting trustees and other users of its services to join a user research participant pool, which will help inform improvements to its systems and services.

The call for evidence closes on 1 July 2028.

Should you have any queries regarding any of the above information, please do not hesitate to contact our Policy, Planning and Engagement Manager via alicemorrey@almshouses.org

posted 3 August 2026

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.

Screenshots credit: ITV

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.”

Screenshots credit: ITV

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

New Code of Practice – volunteer your charity!

Code of Practice for almshouse charities

Many of you will know that The Almshouse Association has been developing a Code of Practice (‘the Code’) as the next stage following our Charity Health Check, which has now been completed by more than half our membership.

We are now inviting member charities to volunteer to help shape the Code by taking part in the project pilot.

Interested? Please do get in touch via: harrietlemon@almshouses.org.

Purpose of the Code


The Code aims to strengthen confidence, consistency and transparency across almshouse provision, while remaining practical and proportionate for charities of all sizes. Importantly, it preserves charities’ independence and self-governance, while providing reassurance of quality and standards to stakeholders such as planners and national and local government.

How the Code works

Carefully aligned with the Standards of Almshouse Management (SAM), the Code translates established guidance into a clear framework to support day-to-day operations. Its purpose is to ensure almshouses continue to operate in the best interests of the residents and the charities, while demonstrating high standards to the Charity Commission, funders and other public bodies.

Why your support matters

Many of you have already contributed to the draft Code and we are most grateful for your input. The next step is to pilot the approach to assess how effectively it can be implemented by all almshouse charities. Participating charities will have the opportunity to be among the first to attain The Code of Practice Certificate.

If successful, the Code will:

  • reassure stakeholders that your charity is delivering high standards of housing
  • give new trustees confidence in well-governed and effectively managed charities
  • strengthen relationships with local authorities by supporting due diligence requirements
  • enhance your ability to secure funding for your almshouses, governance and recruitment.

Key principles of the Code

At its core, the Code is built on the key principles of ‘SAM’, including:

  • strong governance and financial viability
  • adherence to safety standards
  • transparency in occupancy and charges
  • a clear commitment to charitable objectives and public
    benefit.

It places equal emphasis on resident wellbeing, safe and well-maintained accommodation, and effective governance.

The pilot approach

Charities taking part will undertake a self-certification process, supported and guided by the Association, and potentially an independent consultant. This approach is designed to ensure credibility while remaining achievable for our member charities.

Time commitment and pilot goals

Whilst we do not expect the time required to complete certification to be extensive, the pilot phase is essential to understand the time commitment involved, gauge appetite, refine the approach, identify any unintended burdens and, most importantly, ensure the process is both effective and practical.

Next steps

If you would like your charity to take part in the pilot scheme, please contact harrietlemon@almshouses.org.

Thank you in advance for your support with this important project which we hope will pave the way to more proportionate legislation.

posted 21 July 2026

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