The Almshouse Association Research Workshop – Collaboration and Co-partnership

Over the past decade, interest in the almshouse model has grown significantly, inspiring dedicated researchers to explore its positive impact on residents. Most recently, at a policy level, almshouses were cited in the government commissioned Older People’s Housing Taskforce report (opens new window) as one of a range of community-led, collaborative housing types for people in later life housing. And, in terms of new buildings, United St Saviour’s Charity’s award-winning development, Appleby Blue in Bermondsey, won last year’s National Housing Design Awards. Our second-year Research Workshop therefore provided a valuable opportunity to reflect on our progress over the past year and develop the next steps in our research journey.

Background

Previous research by The Smith Institute, the Housing Learning and Improvement Network (LIN), The Bayes Institute, and private funders has highlighted the profound impact of the almshouse model. Studies have demonstrated its influence on residents' longevity, its economic value—including cost savings to society—and its positive effects on health and well-being (The Dunhill Medical Trust funded Almshouse Resilient Communities Project).

Earlier research findings achieved significant media and academic interest, strengthening the case for long-term support from funders, government, and the public. However, further evidence is essential to secure almshouses’ and the charitable housing sectors’ place in the future of housing. Equally important is preserving the rich heritage of almshouses and ensuring their historical significance is recognised in society.

Collaboration and co-partnership

At The Almshouse Association, we believe it is vital to prioritise charitable housing on the government’s agenda. By presenting robust, evidence-based research, we can showcase the profound benefits of almshouses and other charitable housing models—not only in improving well-being but also in delivering significant cost savings to society.

This year’s Research Workshop brought together an outstanding range of speakers from academia and the charitable housing sector. Representatives from The Cohousing Network, Intergenerational England, Old Hall Intentional Living, The NHF, The Open University, Suffolk University, and Southwark United Charities provided guests with a comprehensive overview of recent research and the diverse charitable housing solutions available. Each of these models plays a crucial role in addressing local housing needs, standing alongside almshouses in their commitment to offering an affordable housing choice and being a community ‘anchors’ that make a social and health impact. By pooling our knowledge and experiences, we can significantly enhance recognition for the sector as a whole.

While past research has illuminated key aspects of the almshouse model’s success, the Workshop discussions revealed deeper questions about the factors sustaining its longevity. Participants explored the unique qualities that define almshouses, the influence of their historical foundations, and the role of governance in enhancing residents' health and well-being. The inclusion of other charitable housing models e.g., cohousing, intergenerational living, intentional living and Abbeyfield Societies, further enriched the conversation, offering a wider perspective on the diverse approaches within the sector. By examining the benefits and challenges of each, we gained a more nuanced understanding of the almshouse movement within the broader landscape of charitable housing and social housing provision.

The success of our future research depends on the ongoing dedication and collaboration of our partner charities and the wider charitable housing sector. We are confident that the insights gained from this Workshop will drive us closer to our shared goal—raising awareness, strengthening support for almshouses and charitable housing, and shaping a future of more inclusive and sustainable community living.

Since our Inaugural Workshop in 2024, we have been developing a strategic plan to ensure our research builds upon, rather than duplicates, previous studies—avoiding research fatigue while addressing key questions raised. Our goal is to consider all perspectives and insights, ensuring a comprehensive and forward-thinking approach to inform current and future generations of almshouses.

This structured, multi-year approach ensures that our research remains impactful, data-driven, and aligned with the evolving needs of both almshouse residents and the broader charitable housing sector.

Next Steps

With several ongoing projects supporting our research, we have established a series of Research Networking Groups to collaborate on key initiatives. These groups will help accelerate our progress.

By addressing these research priorities and strategic steps, we aim to deepen our understanding of the almshouse model and the broader charity housing model, ensuring its continued success and support for future generations.

If you would like to get involved in the Research Networking Groups, please do get in touch with me at: gerryharmon@almshouses.org

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Join us on Tuesday, 17th June 2025 for an insightful HAPPI Hour webinar, hosted in partnership with The Almshouse Association, as we explore the evolving role of almshouses in the 21st century.

If you found this of interest, check out the Housing LIN’s dedicated webpages on almshouse where you can download a range of relevant resources and thought leadership.

You can also find a selection of other materials on The Almshouse Association’s Library of Research (opens new window).