The Poland Trust welcomes The Almshouse Association Royal Vice Patron, HRH The Duke of Gloucester

Surrey almshouse charity, The Poland Trust hosted a royal visit at the launch of its stunning new almshouses on the 10 September 2024.

HRH The Duke of Gloucester, Nick Phillips, Martin Smith and Tim Kenny

Greeted by His Majesty’s Lord-Lieutenant of Surrey Michael More-Molyneux, Cadet Flight Sergeant Lucas Reeve, Association CEO Nick Phillips, and Chair of The Poland Trust Martin Smith, HRH The Duke of Gloucester was warmly received by everyone at the new Brockham site.

A keen architect himself, the Duke showed great interest in the architectural plans for the site which were presented by CEO Martin Smith and trustee, Tim Kenny. Architect, Chris Tizzard provided insights into the design and logistics of the project and the Duke was treated to a live demonstration of the flood water deterrent system!

An introduction to Simon and Juliet Dumas, the generous land donors for the almshouses followed and the Duke was then taken on a tour of several of the new homes where he met residents Rachel Smith and Will Harrow with their children, Jessica, Ella,  Neve and new born baby Oliver, as well as Rosemary Lawlor with her sons, Marc and Riley.

The visit concluded with tea and cake with residents and special guests and a commemorative plaque unveiling. In a heart-warming gesture, the children of the residents presented the Duke with a special book, ‘Artwork by the Children of Poland Meadow’, featuring their hand-painted depictions of their new homes.

Martin Smith expressed his gratitude to the Duke, saying:

“We were honoured to host this memorable event for His Royal Highness. It was a pleasure to show him the almshouses and to introduce him to everyone who played a role in bringing this successful project to life.”

Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association, added:

“We are deeply honoured by His Royal Highness The Duke of Gloucester’s visit to Poland Meadows. This remarkable site, partially funded through self-build homes, harmonises beautifully with the surrounding landscape. We owe our gratitude to Simon and Juliet Dumas for their generous land donation and to Mole Valley Council for their collaborative efforts with The Poland Trust in making this project a reality.”

HRH chats with Juliet Dumas, one of the land doners who made it all possible.

The success of this site, grounded in philanthropic generosity and a decade-long dedication by trustees, has made affordable housing available to young people who might not otherwise have been able to remain in the area.

To learn more about Poland Meadows and The Poland Trust see also:

– Case Study: Poland Trust

– Almshouses for young people in Surrey

posted 16 September 2024