News summary of the latest Policy and Governance legislation that could impact and/or may require action from our member charities, with links to further information where applicable.

Government has been busy in the New Year. We are currently responding to a number of key consultations and papers from DLUC.

CEO Nick Phillips in London today for meeting with government representatives
  • Social Housing and Regeneration Bill – Reforms are being introduced to the National Planning Policy Framework. As many of you will have found, the NPPF guidance includes a definition of affordable housing that excludes the almshouse model. Interestingly, The Almshouse Association is referenced in the bill! It is encouraging that Association members and our supporters in the APPG, together with the team here, have been able to make we have made our concerns apparent, although there is still work to be done and we will be responding clearly and robustly on your behalf seeking amendments to the affordable housing definition to include almshouses. 
  • We are continuing our dialogue with The Regulator of Social Housing, DLUC and the Charity Commission with regards to our concerns about the Social Housing and Regeneration Bill, the requirement for almshouses seeking funding from Homes England to become Regulated (RSL) and the increasing processes around regulation. We will, of course, keep you updated on progress on all matters.

Standards of Almshouse Management

The 2023 version of The Almshouse Association Standards of Almshouse Management has now been published and can be accessed here. We consulted with The Charity Commission, the Regulator of Social Housing and The National Housing Federation on the contents of the manual, all of whom have responded positively and their feedback has been invaluable.

Historic England

Historic England has completed the first draft of the guidance note on almshouses. The guidance is aimed at Historic Building Officers and almshouse managers, and we hope to be able to share the draft and seek further comments from members shortly. We are very grateful to Historic England, Association members and our team of architects and surveyors on our Panel of Consultants for providing their expertise and hands-on experience in the collation of this guidance.

RECORD OF PREVIOUS 2022 Policy and Governance updates:

Posted 25 January 2025