Almshouses primary purpose is to provide safe, warm homes for those in need but with the ability to live independently. Community housing offering compassion and care.
Independent Research has proven that living in an Almshouse increases longevity and supports wellbeing.
At Berkswell Charities, we pride ourselves on the fact that we go one step further and offer our residents pastoral support. This isn’t offered by all Almshouses, but we believe this approach embodies the caring nature of the Almshouse culture, with the emphasis on human interaction.
Sometimes we could all do with a little extra help and support, and we are very keen for our residents to continue to enjoy independent living. Our pastoral care officer offers regular contact with our residents and the choice is theirs whether they wish to see her of not. It’s an opportunity to check in on them, their welfare, well-being, and quality of life, whilst respecting their independence. A listening ear, informal advice and appropriate support whether that’s emotional or social, we are keen to foster a sense of unity and community spirit.
Offering so much help and support, that we can’t possibly list them all here. We as Trustees receive regular positive feedback not only in passing conversations with our residents, but during events held with the Trustees and the residents, and in our annual residents feedback questionnaire.
From helping with making medical appointments, filling in difficult forms, appropriate signposting, to supporting the Trustees with social events, the pastoral care officer is the lynchpin of Berkswell Charities.
The Almshouse Longevity Study Report can be seen https://www.almshouses.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Almshouse-Longevity-Study-Report-FINAL-18.05.23_.pdf
