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Walton Charity: homes for key workers

Walton Charity Expands Affordable Homes to Local Key Workers

In an impactful step towards tackling the local housing crisis, Walton Charity has launched new secure, affordable homes for key workers. Ten newly built almshouses in Esher and Thames Ditton have recently been opened to local health workers, educators and essential service providers at a time when key workers continue to be priced out of the places they serve.

This marks a milestone in the local charitable foundation’s 800-year history of service to the Elmbridge community.

A new home, a new chapter

One of the new residents, Chelsey, a single mother of two and a local key worker, spoke emotionally about the transformation the new home has brought to her family’s life:

“I was in a very small flat before, with no garden. It wasn’t nice and homely, so I’d always have to go out and spend money all the time. Now I can sit outside when it’s sunny, with my boys kicking a ball around and jumping on the trampoline. It makes the family happier.”
Chelsey, resident

Responding to a growing crisis

This initiative could not come at a more urgent time. According to a 2024 report from Shelter, renting in the private sector is unaffordable for 45% of newly qualified nurses nationally. In the South-East, this rises to a staggering 93%. Walton Charity’s research has also revealed that Elmbridge is one of the most expensive and unequal boroughs in the country, meaning the housing challenge is particularly stark.

Recognising this, Walton Charity has made a bold commitment to tackle unaffordable housing and homelessness in Elmbridge: to build and acquire at least five new bedspaces each year, with a particular focus on key workers.

“The pandemic really showed us how much we rely on key workers. Every little helps, and we understand the immense difference safe and secure housing makes to someone’s life. It is not just a roof over your head, but it’s somewhere to call home, where children can play and do their homework, where health and well-being is improved, and where you can bring friends and family home. We’re proud to give them the homes they deserve.”
Rob Mills, Chief Executive, Walton Charity

Rooted in history, building for the future

Walton Charity is one of the oldest charities in the country, tracing its roots back over 800 years, pre-dating the signing of the Magna Carta. Its first almshouse was built in 1774 in Walton-on-Thames, and it has provided charitable housing ever since. Unlike other forms of social housing, almshouses are owned and managed by local charities, offering long-term, low-cost accommodation rooted in community values.

Today, the charity’s work is as diverse it is impactful: it manages independent living schemes, green spaces, a foodbank, and a community hub, as well as awarding substantial grants to local organisations.

The ten new almshouses in Esher and Thames Ditton represent an evolution of the charity’s legacy. While their other almshouses, Fenner House and Mayfield, are for over-55’s, these homes are designed for working families – ensuring that essential key workers can live affordably in the communities they serve.

Community impact

With 9 adults and 11 children moved in, or preparing to move in, the impact is immediate and life changing. Some residents have come from the private rental sector, others from their parent’s homes, and a few from periods of homelessness or sofa-surfing.

“These are people doing vital jobs in our community – nurses, care workers, teachers, and more. As long as they remain a key worker, this can be their home for life.”
Sarah Tomkins, Chair of Trustees, Walton Charity

Walton Charity is proud to be part of the solution – by providing safe, secure, affordable, and long-term homes for the vital people in our community, they are building an Elmbridge community where everyone can thrive.

See also Walton Charity blog (pdf) / link

posted 1 July 2025

Members Day 2025 – a spectacular celebration

A huge thank you to everyone who helped make Members Day 2025 such a memorable and meaningful event! We are especially grateful to our generous sponsors – Charity Bank, CCLA, M&G and HCR Law, without whom the day simply wouldn’t have been possible.

With the mercury soaring to 31°C outside, the atmosphere inside was even warmer – full of energy, ideas and shared purpose.

A day of connection, inspiration and celebration

The day began with coffee, cakes, and a buzzing room full of conversation. It was a joy to reconnect with long-standing members, welcome new faces, and finally put names to faces in person.

Annual General Meeting and opening address

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association, officially opened our 74th Annual General Meeting, setting the tone with a welcome that underscored our mission and the power of community. Outgoing treasurer Simon Ling took everyone through the numbers and voting took place on the financial accounts, re-election of trustees and election of new trustees and reappointment of our auditors (minutes of the 74^th AGM will be posted shortly).

We also said goodbye to some amazing contributors to the almshouse movement

Margaret Stewart stepped down from The Almshouse Association board of trustees after 21 years

Simon Ling stepped down as Honorary Treasurer after 8 years

Tricia Scouller stepped down as Chair of the Leonard Hackett Memorial Trust

An inspiring lineup

We were honoured to welcome a distinguished group of speakers who brought fresh insights and thought-provoking ideas:

**Paul Excell | Court Assistant, The Worshipful Company of Information Technologists**
*Artificial Intelligence and its role in shaping the future of charities*

**David Holdsworth | CEO, The Charity Commission**
*A critical look at the Charity Commission’s strategy and the current challenges facing the almshouse movement.*

**Jeremy Porteus | CEO, Housing LIN**
*Exploring the future of housing through the lens of community wellbeing and the Good Neighbours model.*

**Nick Phillips | CEO, The Almshouse Association**
*Presented ‘The Exemplar Model – Knowing Our Place’ as a blueprint for future development.*

**Panel Q&A with Association Consultants**
*An open and engaging discussion with expert insight on key member questions.*

**Willie Hartley Russell | Chairman, The Almshouse Association**
*Shared ‘The Way Ahead’, outlining a clear and passionate vision for our future, including a sneak preview of The Almshouse Association’s new coat of arms!*

A particularly special moment was the introduction of Brother John of The Hospital of St Cross almshouses, who shared his incredible journey travelling the entire UK by bus, raising both funds for his almshouse charity and awareness of almshouses nationwide.

Celebrating Excellence – The Almshouse Association 2025 Awards

We were thrilled to present the 2025 Almshouse Association Awards, recognising our outstanding member achievements, and were delighted to welcome our award winners onto the stage to receive their Awards. [Watch out for full details on their projects will be posted on our website shortly]

Gardens and People Award Winners

Innovation for Living Award Winners

Inspirational Homes Award Winners

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse Charity

…and The Almshouse Association Community Award went to The Charterhouse in London – a special recognition for meaningful local impact

Simon Pott, Chair of the Awards Panel, commended all our Award winners for their outstanding dedication and hard work.

He also emphasised that every one of our members is a winner, recognising their unwavering commitment to providing warm, safe, and welcoming homes for those in need within their local communities.

Congratulations to you all!

Looking to the future

We were deeply moved by George Courtauld, Director of Courtauld and Co. Ltd, who delivered a heartfelt speech as part of our Tomorrow’s Philanthropists programme, reminding us all of the essential human need for a place to call home.

The day concluded with a compassionate talk by Penny Smith – journalist, presenter, and newsreader – on Ageing Well: The Role of Friends, Neighbours and Community.

We’re so grateful to everyone who joined us, spoke, contributed, supported and inspired. Members Day 2025 captured the spirit of the almshouse movement at its very best – a community rooted in history and ready for the future.

Photography by Richard Gray

posted 26 June 2025

Nick Phillips joins Housing LIN’s HAPPI Hour

Can almshouses thrive in the 21st Century?

CEO Nick Phillips was delighted to take part in Housing LIN’s popular HAPPI Hour webinar, contributing to a lively and insightful discussion on the enduring role of almshouses in modern society.

The session explored:

The fascinating history and origins of almshouses
Their continued importance in addressing contemporary housing needs
The distinctive architectural qualities that set them apart
The challenges they face — and how we might protect and evolve them for future generations

The event drew fantastic audience engagement, with enthusiastic feedback including praise such as ‘a brilliant session’.

To watch, please click here: HAPPI Hour Webinar – Sustaining Almshouses for the 21st Century – Events – Housing LIN

posted 25 June 2025

Brother John completes his epic trip

85-Year-Old ‘Brother on a Bus’ returns from his UK-Wide Public Transport Challenge

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.

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

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

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 recorded reflections on his journey, met with locals and stayed in historic almshouses and returned 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!

Charterhouse: a Friday the 13th to Remember!

Friday the 13th is often a day associated with caution, but on Friday 13th June 2025, our Friends of The Almshouse Association threw caution to the wind and gathered for an exclusive tour of the iconic Charterhouse in London – and what a memorable day it proved to be.

The morning was dedicated to uncovering the remarkable story of Thomas Sutton’s charity and gaining a glimpse into life at The Charterhouse today, all set against the exquisite backdrop of this historic and beautifully preserved heritage site.

After a welcome pause for tea and cake, our group was joined by ‘Brother Tim’, a resident of The Charterhouse for the past decade. A walking encyclopaedia of its rich history, legends, and notable residents, Tim delivered a tour that was both insightful and engaging. We were told no two tours are ever quite the same — and according to our Friends, we had the very best.

Tim’s tour guided us on a journey through centuries of history, peppered with fascinating facts, including the surprising claim that the offside rule in football was devised here! It was a rare and special opportunity to delve into the intricate stories and quiet grandeur of this hidden gem in the heart of London.

CEO of The Almshouse Association Nick Phillips commented, “It was a privilege to explore the wonders of the Charterhouse — not only its rich and fascinating history, but also a rare glimpse into the lives of its current residents. When asked if he enjoyed living there, Tim smiled and said, ‘I feel ten years younger than the day I walked through those doors!’“

posted 18 June 2025

Are almshouses part of the solution?

For over a millennium, almshouses have quietly offered sanctuary to those in need across Britain.

Almshouses are the first form of charitable housing and came about through the ancient tradition of the Seven Works of Mercy — to shelter the homeless, feed the hungry, tend the sick, give drink to the thirsty, visit the imprisoned, clothe the naked, and bury the dead.

Although they may have adapted over the years to modern society, these charitable communities still offer sanctuary to those in housing need across the UK.

Today, as the world faces renewed displacement from war, persecution, and natural disaster, the question arises: might the almshouse model once again serve as part of the answer?

The almshouse tradition is founded on independent living within a framework of good neighbourliness. For those forced from their countries, the opportunity to share a small, supportive community with others offers not just shelter, but dignity. With trustees safeguarding the spirit of charity such communities could provide both practical support and a sense of belonging.

As we mark Refugee Week, it feels timely to invite philanthropists and charitable foundations to consider how the enduring principles of the almshouse might be reimagined for those in need today – young families, those leaving care or prison, the homeless, and those seeking refuge.

The almshouses model, steeped in history yet inherently adaptable, remains a quietly powerful response to human need.

Nick Phillips | Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association

Posted 16 June 2025

Government Spending Review

The Almshouse Association responds to Rachel Reeves’ spending review on behalf of the Charity Housing Sector

It is all too easy to criticise any government – they are, as the saying goes, “damned if they do and damned if they don’t.” I will come to the ‘damned’ part shortly, but it’s important to first acknowledge what is most encouraging about this Budget: not so much the detail, but the message it conveys. It is rare to hear in government the promise of long-term investment — the recognition that some of society’s greatest challenges require generational solutions.

Many of the issues we face today – a shortage of genuinely affordable housing, gaps in social care provision, and a lack of adequate family support, to name a few — stem from decades of underinvestment in services that take time to bear fruit. Too often, government policy is driven by short-term returns, designed to show results within the political cycle rather than throughout a generation. So, on that message alone, it is heartening to hear a commitment to long-term planning.

Turning to the details: if funding for affordable housing is to be limited solely to Registered Providers and Housing Associations, government risks missing a significant opportunity. The charity housing sector represents thousands of grassroots community housing models that offer far more than a roof over someone’s head. They provide holistic, person-centred support that strengthens communities and delivers lasting social value.

We hope that, as the finer details emerge, government will continue to recognise the vital contribution of local charities — supporting those in greatest need and valuing the long-term social, economic, and human benefits of charity-led housing provision.

We maintain a good dialogue with the Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government, hoping to free up access to funds and planning opportunities for charity housing to build more and continue to add life-changing value to thousands of people in housing need.

Nick Phillips, Chief Executive of The Almshouse Association

posted 12 June 2025

Historic Derbyshire almshouse secures Section 106 funding

CASE STUDY: Preserving heritage, embracing sustainability: How a 16th-Century Derbyshire almshouse charity secured Section 106 funding and modernised for a low-carbon future.

Overview

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse in Derbyshire, a Grade-listed building with over four centuries of history, recently underwent a transformative refurbishment to preserve its legacy while aligning with contemporary energy efficiency standards. Spearheaded by The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse Charity, the project secured £400,000 through Section 106 funding to revitalise the building’s four flats and future-proof its infrastructure with cutting-edge, sustainable technologies. The securing of Section 106 funding is particularly noteworthy, as almshouse charities that are not registered providers often face significant challenges in accessing these funds.

Background

Built over 440 years ago, the almshouse has served the local community for generations. Despite its historical significance, it fell into serious disrepair by the mid-20th century. In 1958, Derbyshire authorities deemed it unfit for public investment. Sporadic maintenance continued for decades until the charity’s trustees, recognising the need for a complete overhaul, approached Derbyshire Dales District Council in 2022 to initiate a comprehensive renovation.

The vision: to transform the building into a model of low-carbon, affordable housing—while honouring its historical character.

Securing the Funding

Initial discussions with the District Authority began in early 2022, presenting both the pressing need for affordable housing in the region and the unique opportunity to restore a heritage asset. In December 2023, this culminated in a £400,000 grant awarded through Section 106 funds, with key backing from Rob Cogings, Director of Housing at the District Council.

“The Council is pleased to have worked in partnership with the almshouse charity to secure the long-term future of the four flats and significantly improve the energy efficiency of the homes,” said Cogings.
“It is great to see these historic homes given a new lease of life.”

To support the bid, the Council also funded extensive expert consultations—from heritage specialists to building engineers—and appointed an architect to oversee the works, ensuring compliance with conservation standards while enabling modern upgrades.

The renovation process

Construction Phase Launch:
Work began in December 2023, guided by a detailed project plan and pre-agreed contracts. Key milestones included:

Thermal efficiency upgrades: Original internal plaster was removed from exterior walls and replaced with high-performance insulating plaster. Despite cold and damp conditions, residents noticed immediate warmth.
Air source heat pump installation: A new, low-carbon heating system was introduced using an air source heat pump, with individual immersion heaters in each flat for hot water needs.
Ventilation an heat recovery systems: Each flat received an independent mechanical ventilation and heat recovery unit to retain heat while managing airflow.
Double glazing: All windows were replaced with modern double-glazed units to eliminate draughts and improve thermal performance.
Interior modernisation: New kitchens and bathrooms were fitted to improve residents’ comfort and quality of life.

While conservation restrictions prevented the installation of solar panels, the overall energy transformation was significant.

Impact and outcomes

A post-renovation energy performance evaluation revealed remarkable improvements:

CO₂ Emissions Reduction: From 5.5 tonnes to 0.5 tonnes per flat per year – a 90% reduction.
Affordability: Heating costs for residents have dropped to manageable, affordable levels, supporting the building’s social mission.

Key lessons learned

Expert advice is invaluable
Engaging specialists—heritage experts, engineers, and architects—was crucial to ensuring compliance, innovation, and long-term resilience.
Local Authority collaboration is key
Active support and co-operation from planning authorities smoothed the path for approvals, funding, and project momentum.
Heat pump installation requires flexibility
Adapting space to house modern energy systems may require compromises—but the benefits in carbon savings are considerable.
Resident adaptation must be supported
Living in a well-insulated, airtight environment requires adjustment. Providing residents with education and ongoing support was essential.

Conclusion

The Anthony Gell and The Anthony Bunting Almshouse project stands as a blueprint for balancing historic preservation with modern sustainability.

Thanks to thoughtful planning, collaborative governance, and strategic investment, this 16th-century institution is now poised to serve future generations—comfortably, affordably, and sustainably.

The legacy of Anthony Gell and Anthony Bunting lives on – not only in bricks and mortar, but in a forward-thinking vision of heritage housing reimagined for the 21st century.

posted 5 June 2025

Preparations for new almshouses begin

A Legacy Reimagined: New almshouses rise from the heart of Budleigh’s Historic ‘Shandford’

In a world where small acts of kindness often ripple into life-changing legacies, Budleigh Salterton is about to witness one of its most heartwarming transformations.

It began in 1957, when a group of compassionate townsfolk shared a simple, beautiful idea: to create a haven for “the peace and comforting of old friends” – a sanctuary for older residents in need of care, companionship, and dignity. They purchased a modest guest house at 31 Station Road, and with vision and heart, turned it into ‘Shandford’: a home not just in name, but in spirit.

For over half a century, ‘Shandford’ was the beating heart of the community. More than a care home, it was a place where love, laughter, and friendship filled every corner. Overseen by a remarkable committee of local volunteers, neighbours became family – shopping for residents, organising joyous outings, hosting fetes and fundraisers, and offering a constant reminder that no one in Budleigh need grow old alone.

But as times changed and challenges mounted, Shandford’s future became uncertain. In 2014, the torch passed to The Abbeyfield Society, a respected charity for older people. Yet despite heartfelt efforts, the pressures of modern care provision proved too great, and in 2020, ‘Shandford’ quietly closed its doors. For many, it felt like the end of an era.

But it wasn’t the end. It was the beginning of something new.

In true Budleigh spirit, the community rallied once more. In October 2020, a determined group of residents came together to form The Shandford Trust, vowing that the kindness and care that defined ‘Shandford’ would not be lost to history. With courage and commitment, they ensured that the proceeds from the sale of the home would remain rooted in Budleigh Salterton, dedicated to supporting older people in the place they call home.

Today, that promise is blossoming into something extraordinary.

The Shandford Trust has secured a site in the heart of Budleigh, gained planning permission, and begun preparations for three brand-new almshouses — safe, welcoming homes for older residents in need. More than bricks and mortar, these homes will be a symbol of enduring compassion, built on the same values that inspired a group of neighbours nearly seven decades ago.

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association said: “This is a pivotal moment for the almshouse movement — one of the UK’s oldest forms of charitable housing. For over 1,000 years, almshouses have provided affordable homes rooted in community and care. Today, they are experiencing a renaissance, driven by clear evidence of their positive impact on residents’ well-being, community cohesion, and public services. This growing recognition is inspiring almshouse charities to build more homes as well as new almshouse charities being established, proving that this ‘timeless housing model offers timely solutions for modern housing challenges.”

A Celebration of Hope: Breaking New Ground in Budleigh Salterton

On Tuesday 27th May, Budleigh Salterton marked a historic and hopeful milestone. Newly elected Mayor Penny Lewis, donning a hard hat and high-vis vest, ceremonially broke ground on the site of the town’s new almshouses — one small dig for the mayor, one significant stride towards creating much-needed homes for local people.

Affectionately dubbed ‘Digger Day’, the event was a red-letter occasion for the community. With planning permission secured and the site prepared, residents gathered to witness the first trench dug, applauding a moment that was, in every sense of the word, groundbreaking.

Situated alongside Seachange, the town’s health and wellbeing hub, these new almshouses are due to welcome their first residents in early 2026. A testament to local spirit, heritage, and the enduring value of almshouse living, the project promises to provide not only affordable homes but a renewed sense of belonging and community connection.

Chris Davis, Chairman of The Shandford Trust commented: “Helping local people to stay in their community in their later years is a real challenge, especially in property hot spots such as Budleigh Salterton. We are delighted to be contributing to the solution, but there is so much more to do!”

And…..this is just the start

Almshouses satisfy a small but vital proportion of the charitable housing need. With a sizable social housing waiting list in Budleigh and its villages for older generations, the value of further almshouses is clear. After all, each almshouse occupied by the older generation moves younger applicants further up the main social housing list.

At their heart, almshouses deliver lasting value – strengthening communities, supporting government objectives, and offering those in need the chance to live well, with dignity and purpose.

posted 5 June 2025

London Garden Society Competition

The London Garden Society has contacted the Association, inviting London almshouse charities to enter their beautiful gardens into the London Garden Society ‘All London’ Garden Competition where they have a special almshouse garden category.

“The All London Championship covers front gardens, small and large, back gardens, small and large, window boxes, containers, & hanging baskets. Also patio and roof gardens or balcony displays. Don’t worry if your garden is maintained by a contractor as we even have an award for this category. Pubs, restaurants and hotels have their own award. Don’t fit into any of these categories? We even have a miscellaneous category and in the past we have had a famous football training ground in this category!

The winners of each of these categories can win a trophy, medal and certificate but don’t be put off as everyone who enters will get a certificate.

Every winner is invited to The Guildhall where trophies are presented.“
Andrew Babicz, Horticulturist, The London Gardens Society

To find out more, please visit their website here
To enter the competition, email: membership.secretary@thelondongardenssociety.org.uk

Closing date for entries is 15 June 2025

posted 5 June 2025