Almshouses allow those in need to live independently, in a safe and secure environment.
About Almshouses
Almshouses for the Vulnerable
Our 16 Almshouses, located at The Rawlin Homes and John Gayer Homes on Green Street offer a welcome shelter for single, vulnerable ladies over 60, of limited means, allowing them the opportunity to continue to live their lives in dignity. They also provide a strong sense of belonging.
What is an Almshouse?
An Almshouse is an unfurnished residential property owned by a charity, which is licensed for occupation by a qualified beneficiary. These qualified beneficiaries are typically people in need, elderly, or infirm, though they vary from charity to charity. Almshouses originated in 10th – century England as a refuge for poor and old people.
At the time, their residents were usually referred to as bedeswomen or bedesmen, bede being the Anglo-Saxon word for prayer. The reason for this was that the occupants had to pray for the founder of the charity. The earliest documented Almshouse was established in York by King Athelstan at some point in the late 920s or early 930s. The oldest one still standing today is believed to be the Hospital of St Oswald in Worcester, founded ca. 990.
Almshouses Today
Today, Almshouse charities help alleviate financial hardship by offering housing and related services or benefits. Typically run by committed volunteers, their primary purpose is to provide support through the granting of a licence to occupy the accommodation they own, which is given to their beneficiaries. Thanks to these organisations, as many as 36,000 people all over the UK are able to live their lives in a convivial, safe, and secure environment.
Because of the historical context and the common usage when an Almshouse was founded, it may not always include the actual term ‘Almshouse’ in its title. Instead, it could be called a ‘Home’, ‘College’, or ‘Hospital’. Regardless of their name, Almshouses across the country continue to thrive with the help of the Almshouse Association.
Would you like to apply for an Almshouse in Plymouth?