Effective Decision Making online training

NEW!!

Short form library | 10 mins | CPD accredited

This Effective Decision Making Training course has been designed to help the user understand how they can effectively make decisions and how they can improve their decision making. The course offers advice that helps users implement what they have learnt into real world scenarios.

Learning outcomes

Understand what decision-making is
Know the importance of effective decision-making at home and at work
Know how to make an effective decision

This training course is broken down into 2 sections

Section 1: The opening section of the course looks at what decision-making is and why decision-making is important
Section 2: The final section of the course looks at a four-step process on how to make the most effective decisions.

Effective Decision Making Certificate

The course ends with a multiple choice test to measure your knowledge of the material and a printable certificate which includes your name, name of course taken, pass percentage, date of completion and accreditations by recognised authorities.

To access your course

When you click the below login button, you will be taken through to the Training login area.
Type in your email address to log in, select the course you want to complete and follow the onscreen instructions.

NOTE – If this is the first time you have logged into the iHasco Online training area, you will be asked for your name, the name of your charity and Almshouse Association membership number. Please type in your first name and last name as you would like them to appear on your certificate.

Update: Awaab’s Law

Awaab’s Law was introduced on 27 October 2025 through an amendment to the Social Housing (Regulation) Act 2023, in response to the tragic death of Awaab Ishak who died after being exposed to mould at his Rochdale home in December 2020.

In the wake of this tragedy, Awaab’s family has fought to secure justice, not only for their son but for all those who live in social housing.

Awaab’s Law places strict time limits on social landlords who are regulated by the Social Housing Regulator to investigate and repair reported issues of damp and mould.

At the present time (October 2025), Awaab’s Law applies to Registered Providers in England only.

The Almshouse Association is pleased to confirm, however, that following extensive engagement with government officials, almshouse charities that are Registered Providers in England are exempt from the requirements of Awaab’s Law. This exemption recognises the distinct legal and operational status of almshouses, where residents occupy their homes under licence rather than tenancy agreements – and can be seen in the guidance produced by the Government below:

1.5 Which type of housing does Awaab’s Law apply to?
Awaab’s Law does not apply to temporary accommodation, supported accommodation, or other housing that is occupied under a licence. [taken from Awaab’s Law: Guidance for social landlords – Timeframes for repairs in the social rented sector]

The Almshouse Association will now review and update its policies for all member charities on damp, mould and other housing hazards to ensure residents continue to live in safe, well-maintained homes. These policies will reflect the charitable nature, size and governance of almshouse charities, while maintaining high standards of accommodation and care.

posted 28 October 2025

Sexual Harassment Awareness online training

NEW!!

Short form library | 25 mins | CPD accredited

This IIRSM approved Sexual Harassment Awareness Training course has been designed for everyone and aims to raise awareness of workplace sexual harassment. It provides the necessary tools and information to identify, prevent, and most importantly, remove sexual harassment from the workplace. This CPD Accredited course is suitable for all levels of employees and volunteers and is relevant to all industry sectors.

Learning outcomes

Understand how to prevent sexual harassment at work
Be able to better identify cases of sexual harassment at work
Know how to properly report sexual harassment in the workplace

This training course is broken down into 3 sections

Section 1: Teaches the user exactly what is meant by the term “sexual harassment”, helps the user understand the types of sexual harassment and what negative effects it might have on an individual.
Section 2: Presents the user with multiple scenarios where a scenario may or may not be considered sexual harassment. These scenarios focus particularly on the “grey areas” of sexual harassment.
Section 3: Teaches the user about the two stages of addressing sexual harassment. Users will learn about the formal route they can take, the legal route and how they can handle uncomfortable situations. The course also offers information on external services that could be of use

Sexual Harassment Awareness Certificate

To access your course

When you click the below login button, you will be taken through to the Training login area.
Type in your email address to log in, select the course you want to complete and follow the onscreen instructions.

NOTE – If this is the first time you have logged into the iHasco Online training area, you will be asked for your name, the name of your charity and Almshouse Association membership number. Please type in your first name and last name as you would like them to appear on your certificate.

Organisational Skills online training

NEW!!

Short form library | 15 mins

Exploring how to improve your organisational skills with practical tips on how to prioritise tasks, communicate effectively, and organise a workspace

Learning outcomes

Understand what organisational skills are and the benefits they bring
Understand how to improve your own organisational skills
Be equipped with practical tools to put your organisational skills into action

This training course is broken down into 2 sections

Section 1: Looks at the types of organisational skills, why they are important and what they cover.
Section 2: Looks at how an individual can improve their organisational skills.

Organisational Skills Certificate

To access your course

When you click the below login button, you will be taken through to the Training login area.
Type in your email address to log in, select the course you want to complete and follow the onscreen instructions.

NOTE – If this is the first time you have logged into the iHasco Online training area, you will be asked for your name, the name of your charity and Almshouse Association membership number. Please type in your first name and last name as you would like them to appear on your certificate.

Celebrating community, care and diversity at The Finchley Charities

Across the country, almshouse charities offer safe, supportive and welcoming homes for people in housing need. In this article, Almshouse Association Ambassador Simon Smith shines a spotlight on The Finchley Charities in Barnet, London — the almshouse charity where he previously served as Chairman — and shares why he believes it is truly special. Let Simon explain…

“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.”

Do you have an almshouse story to tell? We’d love to hear it and share how your charity is making a difference.

posted October 2025

Active Listening online training

NEW!!

Short form library | 10 mins | CPD accredited

This Active Listening Training course has been designed to help users gain an understanding of what active listening is, why it is effective, and what can be done to improve this skill.

Learning outcomes

Understand what active listening is
Understand the benefits and rewards of practising active listening
Be ready to take your new active listening knowledge and put it into action

This training course is broken down into 2 sections

Section 1: Looks at what active listening is and why its important
Section 2: Covers a range of actions to help the user become an active listener

Active Listening Certificate

To access your course

When you click the below login button, you will be taken through to the Training login area.
Type in your email address to log in, select the course you want to complete and follow the onscreen instructions.

NOTE – If this is the first time you have logged into the iHasco Online training area, you will be asked for your name, the name of your charity and Almshouse Association membership number. Please type in your first name and last name as you would like them to appear on your certificate.

Budgeting online training

NEW!!

Short form library | 17 mins |

Learn what budgeting is and how to manage it effectively.

Learning outcomes

Know what budgeting is
Understand how to create a budget
Know how to manage an effective budget

Budgeting Certificate

To access your course

When you click the below login button, you will be taken through to the Training login area.
Type in your email address to log in, select the course you want to complete and follow the onscreen instructions.

NOTE – If this is the first time you have logged into the iHasco Online training area, you will be asked for your name, the name of your charity and Almshouse Association membership number. Please type in your first name and last name as you would like them to appear on your certificate.

An unforgettable day to celebrate home, heritage and hospitality

Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses, Watford, founded in 1580

In June 2025, the Bedford, Morison and Cordery Almshouses in Watford, hosted a spectacular garden party to celebrate the refurbishment of their gardens, the unveiling of a blue plaque marking their long history, a bespoke sculpted birdbath, and the presentation of three bursaries from the Dame Mary Morison Apprenticeship Trust to local care leavers.

The event not only celebrated the almshouses’ rich heritage but also promoted their values of Home, Heritage and Hospitality, helping the wider Watford community appreciate the importance of almshouse living for older residents.

Guests of honour included Luther Blissett OBE, Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Hertfordshire, who unveiled the blue plaque; Nicholas Buxton, High Sheriff of Hertfordshire, who unveiled the birdbath; and other local dignitaries such as Watford Mayor Peter Taylor, former County Council Leader Richard Roberts, Chief Inspector Andy Wiseman, and Steve Marmion, CEO of Watford Palace Theatre.

Residents and visitors were warmly welcomed by Kay, a remarkable resident who turned 102 (above centre photo) in August, and Felicity Evans MBE, Chair of Trustees.

The birdbath, created by a local sculpture group, symbolises the eight women for whom the almshouses were originally built. The homes have been continuously occupied since 1580, a remarkable testament to their enduring purpose.

The newly refurbished gardens, beautifully curated by the Sunnyside Rural Trust, provided a stunning backdrop for the celebration. Guests enjoyed a relaxed afternoon tea, generously catered by Dallings of Kings Langley, while residents, families and friends came together in the spirit of community.

For centuries, almshouses have offered comfort, safety and companionship for older people. In today’s world, their blend of heritage, home and humanity continues to shine brightly in Watford.

Photography: Andrew Lalchan Photography and Steve Danzig Photography

👉 Learn more: www.watfordbmcalmshouses.org.uk

posted October 2025

Looking after yourself this winter

As winter approaches, it’s important to take steps to stay warm, healthy and financially secure. Here’s a quick guide to help you and your residents prepare. A printable PDF is also included if you’d like to share it.

1. Get your winter vaccinations

Flu and COVID-19 cases tend to rise in winter, so getting vaccinated is key. You may be eligible for a COVID-19 booster if you’re over 75, live in an older adult care home, or have a weakened immune system. You’re entitled to a free flu jab if you’re over 65, a carer, have certain long-term health conditions, live with someone immunocompromised, or are in long-term care. Ask about the pneumo (pneumonia) and Shingles vaccines when you get your flu jab.

2. Keep your home warm

Try to heat the rooms you use most to around 18°C.

Close doors and unused rooms to save energy.
Keep curtains open during the day for natural warmth and closed at night to block draughts.
Rugs on hard floors and hot water bottles can help retain heat. (Never use a hot water bottle with an electric blanket).

3. Prevent the spread of germs

Wash hands regularly with soap and water. Catch coughs in tissues, consider wearing a mask in busy places, and ventilate indoor spaces when possible. Keep hand sanitiser with you while out.

4. Dress for the cold

Layer clothing to trap heat. Wear hats, scarves, and gloves when outside, and opt for warm nightwear and slippers indoors. Keeping your whole body warm helps maintain circulation, especially to hands and feet.

5. Check your finances

Winter can be costly. Make sure you’re claiming all the benefits you’re entitled to. Use a benefits calculator to check your eligibility and find support schemes for heating and energy bills. See on our website: External Funding and Assistance Programmes

6. Be prepared

Stock up on food, water, cold and flu remedies, and any regular medications in case bad weather prevents you from going out. A torch with spare batteries is useful during power cuts.

7. Keep moving
Staying active helps you stay warm and maintain strength. Try not to sit for more than an hour at a time.

If walking is hard, try chair exercises, or simply move your arms, legs, and toes. Find activities that feel safe and comfortable for you.

If you’re unsure where to start or have a long-term condition, seek guidance on safe ways to stay active

8. Stay safe outdoors

Wet leaves, ice, and snow increase the risk of slips and falls. Wear shoes with good grip and keep grit or salt on hand for paths. Ask neighbours for help clearing walkways if needed.

9. Eat Well

Try to keep a routine with regular meals, even if preparing food feels difficult.

Warm foods and drinks: Soups, stews, and hot drinks help keep you warm—aim for at least one hot meal a day.
Balanced diet: Include a variety of foods, with fruit and vegetables daily (fresh, frozen, or tinned). Keep basic supplies at home in case you can’t get to the shops.
If appetite is low: Eat whatever you can manage—even a small treat is better than nothing. If you’re losing weight without trying, make sure you let your doctor know.
Vitamin D: Important for bones, teeth and muscles. In winter, sunlight may not be enough, so ask your doctor if a supplement is right for you.

By following these tips, you can stay warm, well, and financially secure throughout the winter months.

Source: AGE UK

posted 28 October 2025

New Book Release: William Sevenoke and His Almshouses

The Sevenoaks Almshouses came into existence in the early fifteenth century. They were established by William Sevenoke, who served as Mayor of London in 1418. Sevenoke is believed to have been a foundling, discovered in the town of Sevenoaks in the late 1300s who rose to become a wealthy merchant and civic leader in London. He was an Alderman, Warden of the Grocers Livery Company and MP for London.

On his death in 1432, Sevenoke left money to establish a grammar school and almshouses for 20 men and woman ‘in greatest want’. The original almshouses were replaced in 1732 by the present building now known as Sevenoaks Place, which was based upon designs by the Earl of Burlington. It is considered of historic importance and is Grade II* listed.

The Sevenoaks Almshouses have offered nearly 600 years of housing for older people with limited means and this newly published book tells the inspiring story of its founder William Sevenoke. The book, written by Mike Bolton, Chairman of the Sevenoaks Almshouse Trustees, follows the almshouses’ journey from their 15th-century origins, through architectural and social changes, to the present day. It’s the first full account of this enduring charitable legacy.

Available now at: www.sevenoaksbookshop.co.uk

Photo credit: The Sevenoaks almshouses