Celebrating community, care and diversity at The Finchley Charities

“A heritage of care
The Finchley Charities is the largest almshouse provider in the London Borough of Barnet, with a proud history dating back to 1488. Today, it offers 174 almshouse units across three sites, welcoming men, women and couples aged 55 and over. While its foundations are historic, the Charity continues to grow and innovate, ensuring residents receive both excellent housing and a vibrant community life.

A focus on community and connection
What sets The Finchley Charities apart is its commitment to fostering genuine connections and a sense of belonging. Each scheme boasts its own Community Hall, hosting a wide array of activities, from art classes, bingo, quizzes, bridge and knitting, to crochet, sewing and a repair club. Regular coffee mornings and monthly free lunches are also offered through their partnership with FEAST With Us, which teaches nutrition and cookery skills via the Healthy Eating on a Budget programme. Some activities are organised by the Charity, others led by residents themselves, all designed to encourage interaction and inclusion.

Engaging beyond the almshouses
Residents are actively encouraged to participate in wider community volunteering, supported by links with local schools, organisations and projects. Highlights include carol performances by nearby primary schools, a Peer Support Project with Barnet African Caribbean Association and a community allotment initiative with Oak Lodge Special School.

Reflecting the rich diversity of Barnet, the Charity celebrates cultural and religious events including Hanukkah, Eid, Diwali, Nowruz and Black History Month. Community Halls also host informative sessions with local organisations such as the Community Police, Age UK and local law firms offering talks on wills, probate and lasting power of attorney.

Listening to residents
The Charity’s Senior Leadership Team, alongside Sheltered Housing Officers, regularly host ‘Resident Roadshows’, visiting each site to discuss concerns and plan future events.

CEO Carmel Miedziolka emphasises:

“We are committed to working alongside residents to improve services and strengthen local communities. We listen, act on feedback, and aim to develop a harmonious environment where everyone feels safe, secure, and included.”

Feedback is gathered through surveys and resident meetings, ensuring all voices are heard. Minutes and survey results are made available to residents, reinforcing transparency and inclusivity.

Strong governance, resident involvement
The Charity benefits from a wealth of trustee expertise across diverse disciplines. Trustees actively support staff and the Charity’s operations, with sub-committees such as the Health and Safety Committee, including resident members – after all, who better to advise on matters affecting day-to-day life? Co-opted trustees also bring additional skills and independent perspectives to strengthen governance. New trustees meet residents as part of their induction, embedding inclusivity at every level.

At The Finchley Charities, outstanding housing, vibrant community life and resident engagement come together to create a truly exceptional home for older people—one where every individual can thrive.”