Honouring a legacy of care

Mary Bailey’s 28 Years at Hibbert Street Almshouses

The Hibbert Street Almshouse in Luton, Bedfordshire, has recently said goodbye to its long-serving Trustee and Chair, Mary Bailey, and is proud to celebrate her years of commitment with a look back at her contributions and some treasured photos.

A journey rooted in compassion

Mary’s involvement with the almshouses followed a distinguished career as an NHS Nursing Sister in Accident and Emergency. When invited to become a trustee of the historic almshouses, affectionately known as “The Cottages”, she saw an opportunity to continue the values of compassion and community that had guided her professional life.

Founded in 1898 to provide security and dignity to Lutonians facing hardship, the almshouses have evolved over time. Today, they offer 24 modern flats for men and women seeking independent living with support close at hand. Despite these modernisations, the mission has remained steadfast: care, respect, and a welcoming home for those in need.

The Heart of Daily Life

For many years, the smooth running of the cottages has depended on the partnership between the live-in Warden and the Clerk to the Trustees. As one of seven trustees, Mary played a vital role in this structure, attending meetings, overseeing decisions and making frequent visits to residents. These visits, she says, were among the most rewarding aspects of her role, offering moments of connection, gratitude, and community spirit.

A lasting impact

Mary’s leadership, including ten years as Chairman, left a profound and positive mark on The Cottages. Pauline De Le Sierra, the almshouse warden, who was also retiring, fondly recalls Mary’s unwavering commitment to residents’ wellbeing and her determination to keep the cottages comfortable and welcoming. Mary oversaw vital improvements, from repairs and refurbishments to window replacements, and fostered community links, working with groups such as the Rotary Club to provide outings and social opportunities for residents.

Community, pride and celebration

The cottages have long been known for their beautiful gardens, lovingly maintained by residents and proudly recognised with the Luton in Bloom trophy for three consecutive years in the mid-1990s. This tradition of gardening excellence continues today.

Over the years, the cottages have also welcomed notable visitors. Among them was TV personality Esther Rantzen, who visited during her campaign for MP and helped celebrate a resident’s 90th birthday with flowers donated by Vauxhall Motors, an occasion still remembered with affection.

Passing the torch

As Mary retires, she leaves behind a legacy defined by compassion, community, and a steadfast commitment to improving the lives of residents. She extends her warmest wishes to the current trustees and residents, expressing hope that the cottages will continue to flourish as a haven of dignity and care.

A legacy to celebrate

Mary Bailey’s 28 years of service to the Hibbert Street almshouses have shaped a community where residents feel valued, supported, and at home.

As she and Pauline step into retirement, their influence and dedication will continue to inspire all who work to preserve the spirit and purpose of the almshouses.

posted 11 December 2025