2025 Awards

The 2025 Almshouse Association Awards are now open for submissions!

The Almshouse Association Awards celebrate the remarkable achievements of our member charities, highlighting their innovation, dedication and above all, the positive impact that almshouse living brings to residents’ lives.

_{Appleby Blue – 2024 Inspirational Homes Award winner. Photo credit: Philip Vile}

We are pleased to announce that The Almshouse Association 2025 Awards are now open for submissions for projects completed in 2024.

Our Awards Panel is always filled with great anticipation at this time of year as we look forward to receiving your inspiring submissions of recently completed projects.

_{Girton Town Charity – 2024 Innovation for Living Award winner}

Past entries have demonstrated an impressive breadth of accomplishments, from pioneering planning and financing solutions to exceptional collaborations with local authorities.

Projects range from the meticulous restoration of Grade I, II* and II listed properties to the thoughtful development of newer, more modest housing – all of which reflect the diverse ambitions and resources of our members.

Some almshouse charities undertake the creation of individual homes, while others manage larger-scale developments; each project offers valuable lessons and inspiration for our community.

_{Partis College – 2019 Gardens and People Award winner}

The Awards not only serve as a platform to showcase the vitality and resilience of the almshouse movement, but they also help us build a catalogue of exemplary projects to inspire and guide others.

We encourage you to share your enthusiasm, energy, and ingenuity with us.

Don’t hesitate to tell us about your achievements, the challenges you’ve navigated, and the successes your hard work has brought to fruition.

Each submission is greatly valued and appreciated, and we thank you for your efforts in preparing and sharing your projects. We eagerly await your entries!

DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSIONS – 31 JANUARY 2025

Click here to access our dedicated awards pages – for tips and guidance, 2025 Submissions form, message from our Awards Chairman, Simon Pott and lots of project details on past award winners.

_{Mills Charity – 2018 Patrons Award winner}

_{Poland Trust – 2023 Inspirational Homes Award winner}

posted 18 November 2024

2025/6 Specimen Outline Budget

Every year, it is important that the trustees of almshouse charities review the weekly maintenance contributions (WMCs) their charity sets for their residents.

To assist members in setting their residents’ WMCs , The Almshouse Association has produced our annual Specimen Outline Budget.

As a first step members will need to consider two elements when setting their WMC:

the financial viability of the charity,
the avoidance of hardships on the residents.

Increases in WMC are necessary so charities can maintain financial viability and continue to provide support to residents and the wider community. Any increase, however, should take into account the wellbeing of the residents who must be able to afford the WMC without being caused hardship. Striking a balance between these two demands will help to ensure that the WMC is set at an appropriate level.

The Association recommends that wherever possible members increase their WMC in a way which is sympathetic to the needs of the charity and its residents.

Those of our member charities who are Registered Providers of Social Housing are obliged to abide by the rent formula set by the Regulator of Social Housing i.e., CPI plus 1%. The CPI figure for September 2024 was 1.7% and hence the maximum WMC increase for the period 1 April to 31 March 2026 is 2.7%.

We are also aware that some members will be able to absorb some of the burden of increased costs for their residents. However, it is vital that charities, when considering increasing the WMC, seek to maintain stable foundations not only for the foreseeable future, but for the years ahead.

Our Specimen Outline Budget for 2025/26 can be accessed via the below links:

posted 14 November 2024

P&G update: 14.11.24

The latest policy, governance and political engagement news from The Almshouse Association.

National Policy Planning Framework

Our response to the consultation for the reviews of the NPPF has been sent to Ministry of Housing, Communities & Local Government (MHCLG) and the Minister. We wish to thank you all for your input as well as your great support and communication to your local MPs.

Nick Phillips is meeting MPs in Westminster to cover questions raised in early December.

Nick has spent time with MHCLG to discuss the proposal for the changes we wish to see made to the NPPF and to discuss the details of the Code of Conduct. It is still very early days and there is no certainty. It is likely that MHCLG are reviewing the details for ministers to consider.

We anticipate that The Almshouse Association will need to maintain engagement with MPs of both parties and Civil Servants in order to keep our position on the planning agenda.

Meetings with organisations such as The Regulator of Social Housing and the National Federation will continue on this agenda.

Competency and Conduct qualifications

4/11/24. Nick Phillips spent time with the development team at MHCLG reviewing the Competency and Conduct qualifications required in the housing sector.

Firstly, the team confirmed that the need to start or even be in a position to start by April 2025 had been dropped. They are not able to confirm that the proposals discussed would be adopted for the scheme but they were keen to discuss again the impact of the qualification on the part time clerks for almshouse charities. Nick made a very strong case for a “de-minimus” scale or part-time clerk role to stand outside the scope of the current proposed qualification requirements.

The team listed and asked questions although they are not in a position to respond on behalf of ministers. We will keep you updated but for now there is no panic in terms of the April 2025 trigger.

MP Meetings

In November, Julian Marczak, Head of Member Services, and Wokingham MP Clive Jones held productive discussions at Westende Almshouses on the importance of almshouses being recognised as affordable housing in the NPPF.

Special thanks to trustees and Manager, Amy Garstang for hosting the meeting.

Nick Phillips met with Dame Priti Patel and Jeni Hoskin & Charles Ryland of Witlet & Witsell Property Management to discuss the almshouse model and the vital role of almshouses in providing affordable homes.

Special thanks to Dame Priti’s team & Jeni Hoskin for their help organising the meeting.

Taken from Rt Hon Priti Patel webpage

Priti meets Almshouse Association to discuss social housing

Published: 20th November 2024 – 5:03 pm Category: Local News

The MP for Witham, Priti Patel, recently met with local business Witlet, Witham United Charities and the national Almshouse Association to discuss the role of almshouses in providing social housing in the local area.

Charles Ryland, director of local family business Witlet, is working with Witham United Charities, and the Almshouse Association to support this historic local charity. The charity now owns 17 almshouse properties within the curtilage of the Church Street/Chalks Road Conservation Area, housing local people (often elderly) of limited financial means. During their meeting, Priti discussed with Charles and Almshouse Association Chief Executive Nick Phillips some of the current issues that prevent further growth of almshouses and their ability to provide affordable social housing options in local communities. The current definition of affordable housing in the NPPF excludes almshouses, and instead only recognises regulated housing providers. This limits almshouses’ access to section 106 support, unless they undergo an extensive process of becoming regulated (processes which are typically designed for housing associations with over 1,000 units). Most almshouses have less than 20 units, and 80% are not regulated by the Social Housing Regulator.

Priti said after the meeting: “I would like to thank Witlet, Witham United Charities and the Almshouse Association for meeting with me to discuss the vital role they are playing in providing social housing in the constituency. Almshouses face a unique set of challenges particularly when it comes to funding and recognition to support those most in need of housing. I will work with our local businesses and charities on this matter so that we can expand the social housing options they are able to provide.”

posted 14 November 2024

Devon Regional Meeting

A full house at the Devon Regional Meeting with local trustees, clerks and Chairs gathering together from all over the region.

Kindly hosted by Tiverton Almshouse Trust on Thursday 24th October 2024, it was a great opportunity to catch up on all the latest almshouse news and discuss a range of topics including independent living and aging residents, CIO status, WMC and license/letter of appointment. Association CEO Nick Phillips spoke on the latest legislation updates and attendees were also treated to a tour of the stunning almshouse site.

Many thanks to Nicky for organising such a great meeting and sending us in these pics!

posted 14 November 2024

Richmond Charities making headlines

Richmond Charities almshouses feature in Civil Society and in the |UK Property Forum

Great to see our member almshouse charity, Richmond Charities making news, building more almshouses and raising the profile of the almshouse movement.

In the property magazine, THE FORUM there is big news about the upcoming opening of the Elizabeth Doughty Almshouses on Queen’s Road, a significant development in elderly housing set to debut in March 2025.

Click here to access

In Civil Society, Léa Legraien talks to Samantha Maskell, head of finance, policy and governance at the Richmond Charities, about almshouses and ensuring they are fit for the future.

Click here to access

posted 14 November 2024

Inside Housing: CEO Comment

Almshouses are social housing in its earliest form, yet they’re still denied social housing status, writes Nick Phillips, chief executive of The Almshouse Association.

The National Planning Policy Framework’s focus on registered providers excludes many almshouse charities, particularly smaller ones. These smaller charities have limited resources and staff and face regulatory challenges that limit their capacity to maintain and expand their housing stock.

The Almshouse Association has submitted a proposal to the NPPF consultation, advocating for almshouses to be recognised as affordable housing, and is developing a code of conduct to strengthen government trust.

“Being denied social housing status by England’s chief planning policy legislation means some almshouse charities are omitted from funding. If almshouse charities had access to Affordable Housing Programme bidding and Section 106 funds, the speed and quality of almshouses being built would be substantially increased.“

See Nick Phillips’ comment in the latest issue of Inside Housing -Almshouses need to be recognised as social housing to be able to reach their full potential .

14 November 2024

Using your Member Logo

As a member of The Almshouse Association, you are invited to proudly display The Almshouse Association Member Logo on your website, social media and any promotional materials or stationery.

The Almshouse Association Member logo represents a shared sense of community, connecting all members. It reflects your commitment as an almshouse charity to excellence and embodies the pride we take in our collective mission:

Creating affordable, warm and safe homes in friendly communities for people in housing need, preserving the legacies of the almshouse movement and protecting our national heritage.

To access the logo, please click here
For instructions on using the logo, please click here

Why branding is important

Our visual identity is the graphic expression of who we are and what we represent. Our brand encompasses everything that our members, the public, the government, donors and almshouse residents think, feel, say, hear, read, watch, imagine, hope and associate with The Almshouse Association and its members.

A strong cohesive identity fosters instant and lasting recognition of our national brand across our diverse range of audiences.

As the almshouse movement is experiencing a renaissance and gaining significant media attention, we encourage members to fully leverage our members logo to enhance their charity’s visibility and impact.

Should you encounter any issues, please don’t hesitate to contact us at karenmorris@almshouses.org. We would be more than more than happy to assist.

posted 11 November 2024

TRAINING: The Almshouse Way (CPD)

The Almshouse Association 1-day interactive learning training course is a great opportunity to meet your counterparts in the almshouse network and underpin your knowledge of almshouses and how they operate.

It is aimed at ‘new to the role’ CEOs, clerks and trustees as well as members that are looking to consolidate their knowledge. It has been CPD accredited (Continuing Professional Development) and attendees will receive a certificate at the end of the course.

Objective
To provide almshouse charity CEOs, clerks and trustees with essential training and to enable you to adopt best practice in fulfilling your duties and furthering the success of your almshouse charity.

Click to find out more about The Almshouse Way 1 day training course and to book your place

2024 Christmas Fund

The Almshouse Association is so very pleased to be able to offer Christmas fund gift vouchers again this year to almshouse residents who are 90 years of age or older on 25th December 2024.

The Almshouse Association Christmas Fund derives its origin from a generous legacy left to the Association over 70 years ago by Major Allnatt, a successful businessman and philanthropist who worked closely with and supported the Association’s founding General Secretary, Leonard Hackett.

His wish was for a small gift to be handed to almshouse residents on Christmas Eve and until his death in 1969 he wanted to remain anonymous.

The Almshouse Association invested the funds he left so that every year we are able to honour both his name and legacy in the form of a gift voucher that is sent to almshouse charities to give to their residents* at Christmas.

You’ll find an order form to apply for the Christmas vouchers in the Autumn/Winter Almshouses Gazette (being sent to all member charities this week) or you can click on this link to download the form to complete and send back to us.

Please complete and return to The Almshouse Association by email or post before the 22 November 2024.

All gifts are issued on a first come, first served basis and will be sent to the member contact detailed on your form in time to be given to your residents on Christmas Eve (The Almshouse Association will not send vouchers directly to the resident).

We love to see photos of the heart-warming occasions, so with your residents’ permission, please do keep sending them in to us!

28 October 2024

* Almshouse residents of member charities who are 90 years old or over on 25 December 2024. Vouchers must be applied for by the Charity using the official Christmas fund booking form and received by The Almshouse Association by the deadline on the form. Vouchers are sent to the designated contact at the member charity. There are limited vouchers available which are issued on a first come, first served basis.

Energy bills advice

Navigating energy bills continues to be something of a daunting task, especially when finances are limited. The Association has put together some practical advice and suggestions on the subject to help alleviate the pressure of high energy bills which we hope will be helpful for our member almshouse charities and their residents.

Warm Home Discount
There is support available to help with your energy bills, whether it be through energy grants or support services. If you are receiving pension credit or certain other benefits, you could qualify for the Warm Home Discount which is a one-time payment of £150 to help with your electricity bill. If you’re eligible and your supplier participates in the scheme, the discount is usually received automatically between October and March.

Winter Fuel Payment
There has been much comment in the media about the cuts that have been made in Winter Fuel Payments and the process now involved in applying for this, but for those aged over 60 it is still worth enquiring whether you are eligible for this payment from the government of up to £300 that helps cover energy costs during the chilly winter months.

Cold weather payment
This payment kicks in when the temperature drops below 0 degrees for a whole week. You could get £25 for each qualifying week between November and March.

The Priority Services Register (PSR)
This offers essential support for those needing extra assistance from their energy provider due to disability, illness, low income or age. Benefits include tailored help during emergencies, advanced notice of power cuts, and energy-saving advice. It is necessary to contact your energy supplier to be put on the register.

Each supplier has its own process for those in difficulty with energy bills, so it’s best to speak to them when you need help.

Practical tips to help save energy

Upgrade appliances with those that have good EPC (energy performance certificate) ratings to reduce energy consumption.
Replace old incandescent bulbs with energy efficient LED bulbs which use less energy and have a longer lifespan.
Seal drafts: Check around windows, doors, and vents and seal them with weatherstripping or caulking. This helps prevent heat loss in winter and keeps cool air inside during summer.
Set your thermostat to energy efficient temperatures of between 18-21 degrees. The lower the setting the higher the savings.
Curtains: During sunny days, open curtains or blinds to keep the home warmer. Close them at night to retain heat.
Deal with faulty insulation or inefficient heating, let your landlord know.
Limit hot water usage: Use energy efficient showerheads, take shorter showers, and wash clothes in cold water to reduce energy consumption associated with heating water.
Install a smart meter which is free. This shows you exactly how much energy you’re using and when so you can spot any energy guzzling habits and make changes to save money.
Laundry tips: Wash clothes at 20-40°C to save energy and money. Avoid using the tumble dryer and instead, dry clothes outside whenever possible. Don’t dry clothes directly on radiators as it disrupts the warm airflow in the room.
Water usage: Spend less time in the shower aiming for just 4 minutes and consider swapping baths for showers. Avoid overfilling the kettle, only boiling the amount of water you need.
Dishwasher usage: Fill your dishwasher with a full load and use the eco setting if available to save energy.

posted 29 October 2024