People land on our shores from often, war-torn countries, families lost and afraid. What these people often wish to cling to, (second only to the freedom to live without immediate fear), are people that remind them of home – a micro community supporting each other. This need to be with others of a shared understanding happens with all of us, but is especially important with every refugee.
This week, the  Government updated the Afghanistan Housing Portal – their description of affordable housing for independent living as stipulated – sounds like the framework of an almshouse model.
Almshouses are usually established for the people in most need as at the time the founder gifts their legacy, and this is such a sacred and valued gift. One could map the changes in needs in society through the almshouse model. From the 10th Century, where almshouses were established for the sick, elderly and vulnerable outside the city walls,  through the periods of leprosy, plague, war, industrial revolution homelessness, strife widows and industrial workers, all the way to today’s most in need.
I wonder if a future almshouse legacy will meet the needs of today’s vulnerable and lonely? Whether they are young people leaving care, young families with no fixed home or refugees. A legacy could go on for centuries offering warmth and hospitality to those most in need.”
Click here to find out more: Afghanistan housing portal – offer accommodation and other support – GOV.UK (www.gov.uk)
Nick Phillips CEO The Almshouse Association