“Almshouses offer independent living in a safe, welcoming community-led environment that supports well-being. They are often designed so that residents feel part of a community within a community. The spirit of almshouses can be found in the traditional layout of their homes, which encompasses neighbourliness and social interaction without impacting individuals’ privacy. They are built with compassion, kindness, and shared values in mind. Some almshouses have communal areas and gardens for residents to come together. These special communities often alleviate isolation yet offer independent living too. For people who are in true housing need, almshouses can provide a life-changing opportunity.” The Almshouse Association.

Legally, historically and socially Almshouses are unique. They are managed by local leadership, the Trustees of the Charity. The residents do not pay rent, instead, a weekly maintenance contribution is paid, which does not add to hardship, to cover the expense of maintenance and upkeep of the building by the Charity.

Almshouses have been shown to improve residents’ well-being and sense of belonging and community and recent research shows that residents living in Almshouses live longer. Bayes Business School Research 18th May 2023 Almshouse Longevity Study.

Berkswell Charities have a proud heritage, going back hundreds of years, providing social housing in the form of Almshouses to those in need.

The current Trustees of Berkswell Charities are justifiably proud of being part of the wider Almshouse Community and currently offer 14 one-bed Almshouses split across Berkswell and Burton Green.

In keeping with this community spirit, and in recognition of the residents' beneficiary status, the Trustees organise events, such as Christmas parties or lunches to celebrate special occasions. These are well appreciated and enjoyed by the residents.

To ensure their well-being, the Charities offer the services of a Pastoral Care Officer who regularly meets the residents to address any needs or concerns to ensure that at all times there is a “caring and listening ear available” with appropriate signposting with the support of the Clerk.