Latest News | The Almshouse Association

Almshouses featured on BBC’s The One Show

Showcasing a community-centred solution to the housing crisis

We were delighted to see almshouses featured in The One Show‘s segment on the shortage of social housing, which aired on Tuesday 5 August 2025.

Our heartfelt thanks go to the almshouse charities, The Poland Trust (Surrey) and St Anne and St Johns Almshouses (Rutland), whose support was vital in making this collaboration with the BBC possible. After months of working closely with the production team, it was truly rewarding to see the feature come to life on screen.

” Safe, secure and independent”

The segment offered a powerful and uplifting portrayal of almshouses as part of the solution to the social housing crisis. It highlighted the strong sense of community, safety, and stability that almshouses provide for residents.

We were especially pleased to see both almshouses for older people and those supporting younger individuals represented, showcasing the intergenerational richness and diversity of these unique communities.

A sincere thank you also goes to the entire One Show team. It was a real pleasure to work with such a professional, thoughtful, and collaborative group.

We look forward to the opportunity to work together again in the future.

To watch, please go The One Show – 05/08/25 (02:00 – 06:27)

[Above images are screenshots from the BBC Iplayer One Show]

posted 6 August 2025

Policy & Governance update: August 25

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

1. Consultations

There are several consultations now open that may be of interest to members. The Almshouse Association will be writing responses, so do please get in touch with anything you would like us to consider in our submissions. Members are, of course, welcome to submit individual responses as well.

How to implement Social Rent convergence – 27 August 2025

This consultation seeks views on how to implement Social Rent convergence, as part of the government’s 10-year rent settlement for social housing. This would be permitted at either £1 or £2 per week.
Proposed reforms to the WaterSure support scheme – 1 September 2025

The Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra) is proposing reforms to the ‘WaterSure’ scheme. These proposals will offer stronger protection to low-income households with high essential water use.

WaterSure caps bills for low-income households on means-tested benefits who need to use high levels of water because they have either: a qualifying medical condition or, three or more children in the household. WaterSure caps the household’s water and sewerage bill at the amount of the average household water and sewerage bill in the water company’s area.

The scheme is administered through the individual water companies. For more information on the scheme click here.

2. Water Compensation

The Government have recently announced that water companies will increase compensation payments to customers up to tenfold from 2 July, ensuring that the public are more fairly reimbursed for supply issues and low standards of service.

Triggers for compensation to be expanded to include company failure to conduct meter readings and installations.
Customers will automatically receive more money for issues such as continued low water pressure and cancelled appointments.
No action will be needed from eligible customers as payments will automatically be credited back to their accounts.

3. Update to fundraising code of practice

Fundraising regulation in the UK is evolving to reflect modern fundraising practices. A new Code of Fundraising Practice has been published by the Fundraising Regulator offering a clearer, more adaptable approach to fundraising regulation.

The new code is effective from 1 November 2025,
Fundraising organisations should review the new code and support guides and begin preparing to ensure compliance.
The new Code of Fundraising Practice, and accompanying support guides can be accessed here,

4. Civil Society Covenant

The Civil Society Covenant was announced on 17 July 2025. It is a set of principles designed to help build effective partnerships across civil society and government.

Charities might find this page useful – it offers guidance and further resources on putting the Covenant into practice.

5. Nat West Social Housing Fund

NatWest has launched new lending of up to £500 million, entirely ringfenced for the building of social rent housing across the UK. The social loan will be available to housing associations which are existing customers of NatWest Group and meet the applicable eligibility criteria.

For more information see the press release here.

6. Housing Qualifications

On 2 July 2025 Matthew Pennycook announced that there will be a new Competence and Conduct Standard, which will come into force in October 2026.

There will be a three-year transition period for large providers, and a four-year transition for small providers. No more details have been published.

The Almshouse Association will continue to monitor the situation and encourage Government to consider exemptions for trustees and micro charities.

posted 30 July 2025

Real stories, real impact: will you introduce us?

Help us share the magic of almshouses

We’d love your help in highlighting the incredible difference almshouse living can make to people’s lives.

As part of our efforts to raise awareness about this unique, but often overlooked form of charitable housing, we’re hoping to meet residents who might be happy to share their personal experiences.

We’re especially keen to hear how being part of a supportive, welcoming community has made an impact, particularly for those who may have felt lonely or isolated before moving in.

These stories can inspire others, shift perceptions and shine a light on the vital role almshouses continue to play today.

If you know of any residents who might feel comfortable having a relaxed, informal chat with us – perhaps over a cup of tea – we’d be truly grateful for an introduction.

Please drop a line to gerryharmon@almshouses.org and we’ll be in touch to arrange a time that suits.

Thank you so much for helping us share these vital stories and champion the enduring value of almshouses.

posted 24 July 2025

Planting memories: His Royal Highness visits More’s Meadow

Sunshine and celebration filled the air last week as His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester visited Great Shelford Village Charity’s new almshouse development at More’s Meadow. It was a day of warmth, community spirit and wonderful memories for all.

His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester, was warmly welcomed by residents and trustees before embarking on a tour of the beautiful new almshouses, taking time to meet those who now call More’s Meadow home.

A particularly joyful moment came as the children of Great Shelford and More’s Meadow gathered to help His Royal Highness plant a young apple tree, a lasting symbol of a fruitful community and hope. The children were delighted and very well aware of the honour and privilege it was to share the experience with a senior member of The Royal Family.

The day concluded in perfect English tradition, with tea, homemade cake and the unveiling of a commemorative plaque by His Royal Highness, ensuring the memory of this special visit will be preserved for generations to come.

It was, without doubt, a day of shared celebration – one shared by the entire almshouse community and all in the village of Great Shelford.

CEO of The Almshouse Association, Nick Phillips, commented, “It was a distinct honour to welcome His Royal Highness, The Duke of Gloucester, Royal Vice Patron of The Almshouse Association, to one of the UK’s leading almshouse charities. The visit highlighted the trustees’ bold and imaginative intergenerational community project that provides warm, supportive housing for residents ranging in age from six months to over seventy years.”

posted 7 July 2025

Policy and Governance update: 2 July 2025

JULY 2025: A summary of the latest UK Government policy news.

1. Spending Review

At last month’s spending review, social housing was firmly on the agenda. Whilst many details are still yet to be published, there have been some announcements:

Matthew Pennycook (Minister of State for Housing and Planning) published a letter to all social housing providers after the review, which detailed the main elements of the investment strategy for social and affordable housing. This included grant funding, rent settlements, building safety, the warm homes standard, homelessness and housing quality.
Over 500,000 homes to be built through new National Housing Bank which will reportedly unlock £53 billion of additional private funding to help unlock a range of housing development sites.

2. Modernising and improving the administration of council tax

A consultation is now available on Modernising and improving the administration of council tax.

It which seeks views on the administration of council tax, including how council tax is billed and how payments are collected and enforced.
It is focused on the administration of council tax and sets out the government’s proposals to make changes to council tax billing, modernising council tax disregards, reviewing the process for collecting council tax and the fees involved.
Deadline 12 September 2025.

3. Government Response published to the consultation on Expanding the Warm Home Discount Scheme, 2025 to 2026

The Government was seeking views on extending the Warm Home Discount scheme 2025 to 2026 to all recipients of means-tested benefits.

The full response to the outcome of the consultation is available here.
The Government plans to remove the high-cost to heat threshold for means-tested benefits, allowing more households to qualify for support.
Reforms are expected to take effect from September 2025.

4. Awaab’s Law

New draft guidance for social landlords has now been published.

This has been produced to help social landlords understand and navigate their responsibilities in relation to Awaab’s Law.
The guidance also provides examples of how Awaab’s law may apply in particular cases.
NOTE: This guidance is still in the draft stages, and MHCLG intend to continue to consult on Awaab’s Law ahead of its implementation in October 2025.

NOTE: The above items are currently in the planning/review stages and are detailed for your information. As and when they come into force, The Almshouse Association will advise members and confirm what applies by law to all almshouse charities and what applies to registered providers.

5. HACT Fuel Fund

The HACT Fuel Fund distributes pre-payment meter fuel vouchers to social housing tenants via social housing organisations and charities.

Households will be eligible for up to six vouchers, each to the value of £49.
The support will be available until the end of December 2025.
This fund is open to housing associations, local authorities and charitable organisations who wish to register as referral partners and refer their residents for fuel vouchers.

Please note, the fund is strictly available to housing tenants, and supporting evidence must be provided with each application to verify eligibility.

To participate as a referral partner for this funding, you need to:

Register your interest https://hact-housing.typeform.com/to/iVNG1ZA0
HACT will then send you an EOI and terms and conditions
Sign and return the EOI to HACT
If any questions, please contact HACT via: energy.hardship@hact.org.uk

posted 2 July 2025

2025 Award winners announced

It has been a truly remarkable year for The Almshouse Association Awards, with members across the country energetically engaged in redevelopment, new construction, and the thoughtful restoration of their almshouses.

This is an inspiring time for the almshouse movement and the Awards panel is deeply privileged to witness first-hand the exceptional work being carried out. The dedication, imagination and heartfelt care shown by members for their charities and residents is both humbling and uplifting.

At Members Day 2025, we were thrilled to present the 2025 Awards which have exceeded all expectations in both scope and spirit.

THE WINNERS

The Municipal Charities of Dover
The Eventide Homes, Bournemouth
Lady Hewley’s Charity, York

Walton Charity, Surrey
The Earl of Southampton Trust
Hudson’s & Storer’s Charities, Melton Mowbray
Barnstaple Almshouses
Kendal Almshouse Charity

Ufford Charities (Non-Ecclesiastical Charities), Woodridge, Suffolk
The Richmond Charities, London
Uxbridge United Welfare Trust
The Anthony Gell & The Anthony Bunting Almshouse Charity, Derbyshire

To explore the stories behind this year’s outstanding winners, please click here – we hope you feel as inspired as we have.

Should you wish to connect with any of the award recipients, we would be more than happy to make an introduction. And of course, we warmly invite you to share your own innovations with us – we are always eager to celebrate and learn from the extraordinary work within our community.

posted 2 July 2025

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!