The CEO of The Almshouse Association welcomes the recent report published by the APPG on Loneliness.
“From our research and that of others it is clear that everyone needs a warm and safe home, but more than that they need a friend and something to do that engenders pride. Almshouses are a 1,000 year old housing model that takes neighbourliness to its heart.”
Nick Phillips, CEO The Almshouse Association
It seems from both this recent independent review and other reports that we have come to recognise loneliness as a debilitating factor. It is this aspect that was highlighted in the almshouse study undertaken by the Whiteley Foundation for Ageing Well that suggested that small scale communities can help people live longer. It seems that the forefathers of today’s almshouse movement had this in mind and although an ancient model of housing its strength is often put down to the fact that the design and spirit of almshouses encourages, promotes and enhances neighbourliness.
The almshouse movement provides homes to over 36,000 people, but more are needed as there are not enough to satisfy the high demand not just for low cost homes in the community but for the added value of small scale community run housing.
Nick Phillips goes on to say “Almshouses are built with compassion and supported with companionship. Whilst they can be considered as a small provider in the UK’s housing world that are available specifically to those in housing need, they make a vital contribution to the affordable housing stock in Britain and it is heart-warming to hear the great bonds of friendships that develop around the courtyards and gardens of Britain’s almshouses. We are working hard to ensure that more almshouses continue to be provided for those in housing need”.
Posted 25 March 21