What Is an Almshouse? A Guide to Affordable Housing for Over-60s in Plymouth
Finding the right place to call home is important at every stage of life. But as time goes on our circumstances can change. Perhaps a home has become too expensive to maintain, a change in personal circumstances has made things more difficult, or you simply want somewhere that feels more manageable and secure.
If you are exploring housing options for yourself or someone you love, you may have come across the word almshouse. But what exactly is an almshouse, and could it be the right option for you?
At Plymouth Charity Trust, we believe everyone deserves a safe, comfortable place to live, where they can maintain their independence and feel part of their community.
What is an almshouse?
Almshouses have a long history in the UK, dating back hundreds of years. Traditionally, they were established by charitable organisations to provide housing for people who needed a little extra support during difficult times.
Today, almshouses continue to serve an important purpose. They offer affordable accommodation to people who meet the charity’s eligibility criteria, helping them find stability and security when they need it most.
Unlike a care home, an almshouse is a place to live independently. Residents have their own private living space and can continue to enjoy their everyday routines, welcome visitors and make their home their own.
For many people, it is about having a comfortable home that feels right for this stage of life, without the worry that can come with managing a property that is no longer suited to their needs or circumstances.
Who can apply for almshouse accommodation?
Every almshouse charity has its own eligibility criteria, so it is important to check the requirements before applying.
At Plymouth Charity Trust, our accommodation is intended for people aged 60 and over who are retired, do not currently own a home and have a connection to Plymouth. Applicants must also meet our other eligibility requirements.
We understand that life does not always go to plan. Changes in health, finances, family circumstances or housing arrangements can leave people facing uncertainty, sometimes quite unexpectedly.
Our aim is to provide affordable, good-quality accommodation for eligible local people who need a secure place to call home.
If you are unsure whether you qualify, we encourage you to get in touch. Our team can help explain the criteria and guide you towards the next steps.
What is it like to live in an almshouse?
One of the most important things to understand about almshouse living is that independence remains at the heart of it.
Residents have their own self-contained accommodation, giving them privacy and the freedom to enjoy life in their own way. Depending on the property, there may also be shared outdoor spaces where residents can enjoy some fresh air and get to know their neighbours.
At Plymouth Charity Trust, our homes are located in different parts of the city, with access to local shops, transport links and other everyday amenities.
We also recognise that feeling safe at home matters. Our properties include safety features designed to support residents, alongside staff and warden visits that help maintain residents’ wellbeing.
An almshouse is not a care home, and we do not provide full-time care. Instead, our focus is on helping eligible residents live independently in a secure and supportive environment.
What makes almshouse living different from renting privately?
For some people, the private rental market can feel uncertain, particularly when finances are limited or personal circumstances have changed.
Almshouse accommodation is provided by a charitable organisation for people who meet its specific criteria. The aim is to offer a stable, affordable home to those who need it, rather than to operate in the same way as a conventional private landlord.
At Plymouth Charity Trust, we have been supporting local people for more than 400 years. Our work is rooted in the belief that having somewhere safe to live can make a real difference to someone’s quality of life.
Of course, every person’s circumstances are different, and it is important to understand the rent, any applicable service charges and the terms of the accommodation before making a decision.
If you receive Housing Benefit, you may also wish to discuss your circumstances with us and check how the costs of a particular property would apply to you.
Discover almshouse accommodation with Plymouth Charity Trust
Our history began in 1632, and our purpose remains as important today as it was then: to help local people find security and stability when they need it most.
We provide a range of self-contained homes across Plymouth, including one-bedroom accommodation at Hele’s Terrace and Grenville House, alongside studio apartments at Lanyon House.
Each location has its own features, so we encourage anyone considering a move to explore the options and find out more about what might suit their circumstances.
Moving home is a personal decision, and we know it can bring a mixture of emotions. There may be practical questions to answer, family members to talk to and plenty to think about along the way.
You do not need to have everything figured out before making an enquiry. Sometimes, the first step is simply finding out what is available and whether it could be right for you.
Could an almshouse be right for you?
If you are aged 60 or over, retired and have a connection to Plymouth, almshouse accommodation may be worth exploring if you are looking for a more affordable and manageable place to live.
We would be happy to help you understand our eligibility criteria and explain how to apply.
To find out more about our homes, visit the Plymouth Charity Trust website or contact our team. We are here to help you explore your options and take the next step towards finding a safe and happy place to call home.