The word almshouse has two etymological roots: alms comes from the ancient Greek word for compassion; whilst house derives from the Anglian term meaning dwelling or shelter. 

Over nearly 1,000 years, almshouses have provided compassionate shelter to many people, but their benefits extend beyond this simple, charitable function because of their unique circumstances as locally constituted organisations with a common purpose of supporting peopleā€™s wellbeing.  The role of housing in health and wellbeing has always been important, but never more so than during the pandemic. Almshouses have demonstrated the value of local community support as a crucial alternative to the larger providers of supported housing. 

In my architecture practiceā€™s work with almshouse charities, we have found that the relationship between each trustee, the residents, and the homes they inhabit to be unique and special, providing a foundation for wellbeing through closely-knit networks.  These provide preventative health benefits that keep people socially and physically engaged much longer in life, often focused in and around shared gardens.  In designing new homes for these organisations, our aim has been to capture this essence so that almshouses can continue to provide for their residentsā€™ health and wellbeing for the next 1,000 years.

The Almshouse Association provides a crucial means for the great number of almshouse charities across the country to act as a network, learning from each other and representing themselves nationally, without losing their uniquely localised natures. 

We look forward to the next chapters in the history of the almshouse. 

Roland Karthaus is an architect, researcher and lecturer and is founding director of Matter Architecture.  The practice focuses on designing buildings and places that are sensitive to context, enduring and sustainable to improve peopleā€™s happiness and wellbeing in the long term.  https://matterarchitecture.uk

Feature image supplied by Roland Karthaus : How can housing be designed for greater social benefit – photo of walkway