We are delighted with the great support we receive from our Royal Patrons and make every effort to achieve longevity in our partnerships with the Royal Households, for the benefit of all our members.
Our Royal Patron, HM King Charles III and Royal Vice Patron, The Duke of Gloucester work tirelessly to support The Almshouse Association and its members.
The Association endeavours to maintain a good relationship with our Royal Patrons and works closely with their private offices to ensure they are not overwhelmed with visit requests. This enables them to give their full attention to any visits or events they can attend.
HRH The Duke of Gloucester at Heytesbury
First steps …..
A member charity wishing to book a Royal visit should firstly contact the CEO or the PR & Engagement Manager of The Almshouse Association to discuss.
At Bond’s Lodge in Coventry, HM The King, (formerly HRH The Prince of Wales) cuts the cake to celebrate the 75th Anniversary of The Almshouse Association, 2021
This conversation is useful as not all charities lend themselves to a Royal visit alone, but could be woven into a wider schedule by the Royal Family.
A formal letter should then be written to The Almshouse Association with your request, background on the history of the charity and any significant factors or changes prompting the visit. It is good to have a celebration to focus on. This could be based on an anniversary, new dwellings, refurbishment etc.
Once agreed, in principle, a series of dates should be suggested at least 6 months in advance. The longer the period, the more likely the visit!
A copy of the formal letter will then be passed to The Lord Lieutenant and the Royal Household and, once a quarter, when the CEO of The Almshouse Association meets with the Royal Patrons Office to discuss and recommend potential visits, your request will be reviewed.
A Royal visit is a collaboration and responsibility of The Almshouse Association, the member charity and The Lord Lieutenants office. All three must remain in communication throughout the process.
To discuss your plans and find out more about organising a royal visit, please contact Gerry Harmon, PR & Engagement Manager at gerryharmon@almshouses.org .