Latest Policy and Governance news from The Almshouse Association.

National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF)

Following the release of the conclusion of the consultation of the NPPF, we can confirm that:

  • the Government is not minded to amend the definition of “affordable housing” to include almshouses
  • the Government recognises the case that The Almshouse Association and our members made
  • the Secretary of State has asked Ministry of Housing, Communities and Local Government (MHCLG) to liaise with The Almshouse Association to find a solution 
  • thanks to the many letters and emails of support from members and MPs, the issue is very much on the Minster’s agenda
  • there were 8 separate references to almshouses in the final Government response
  • we have agreed an engagement and influence strategy with partners and Nick Phillip will be speaking at various events, leading to a Westminster Round Table workshop with government ministers.

Access the findings below:

NPPF consultation response summary Dec 2024Download

Consultation of Right to Buy

This issue raised its head again for the third time in six years. The Almshouse Association responded robustly to changes to the exemptions to ‘Right to Buy’ and defended in detail the case for almshouses to remain exempt.

There is a strong sense that the current Government is supporting the continuation of almshouses being exempt from Right to Buy – however we must remain vigilant to changes in this policy area!

Contact with MPs

Over the last few months you (our members) and Nick Phillips, CEO of The Almshouse Association have met with many MPs who have been very supportive of our proposal to amend the definition of affordable housing in the NPPF. They have tested our case and found we make a sound argument. Many will support our cause over the long term and between us, we will make sure we keep them updated with good news and regularly underpin our clear asks.

With this in mind, Nick met the senior team at Connect, our Government consultant advisors. We have developed a strategic approach to engage Government over the next 12 months – this includes public speaking events, direct meetings and conference engagement.

We have three specific asks of Government and stakeholders:

  • Amend the NPPF to include almshouses as affordable housing.
  • Exempt almshouses from Selective Licensing.
  • Champion the almshouse model within local and national government.

posted 28 January 2025