As defined by The Almshouse Association –
The recognised definition of an almshouse is:
An almshouse is a unit of residential accommodation (usually a house or flat) which belongs to a charity, is provided exclusively to meet the charity’s purposes (for example, the relief of financial need or infirmity) and is occupied or is available for occupation under a licence by a qualified beneficiary.

An almshouse charity is typically a charity which is established for purposes which are to be furthered by the provision of one or more almshouses.

An almshouse charity is usually a charity for the relief of financial hardship by the provision of housing and associated services or benefits which must (or is authorised to) provide its primary benefit by the grant of a licence to occupy the accommodation that it owns to its beneficiaries.

In addition, an almshouse charity is likely to have one or more of the following features:
1. The origin of the charity is a private gift for the relief of poverty;
2. The beneficiaries are required to pay a weekly maintenance contribution that must not be set at a level that would cause hardship;
3. The nature of the accommodation is such that the licence requires that beneficiaries must show particular consideration for the needs of other residents;
4. A significant proportion of the accommodation is permanent endowment;

There are specific criteria for admission to the Community and its accommodation detailed in the Handbook. There must be a financial need, generally applicants are over 60 years of age and be willing to commit to daily attendance in Chapel.

In the first instance contact The Master who will provide a Handbook settling out the criteria for admission and an application form.

All applications are reviewed according to need, the suitability of the accommodation available, and the interests of the Community.

More information can be found on our Vacancies page.

There is no rent for the accommodation but rather Community Members pay a monthly contribution depending on the size of the flat occupied. Please refer to the Handbook which is regularly updated to give current costs.

All costs are outlaid in our Finance page.

With regret, pets are not allowed.

Car parking spaces are allocated by the Master for community members use and there are spaces for visitors to The Hospital.

Salisbury is well served by public transport and there are bus stops very near the Hospital serving the various routes provided.

Limited guest accommodation is available for visitors which may be booked via a calendar in the Common Room Kitchen.

We do not allow visitors to stay overnight in the Community flats.

Yes there are various places where a mobility scooter could be stored and charged.

Yes so long as care is taken in making the fixings.

No.

Yes - By arrangement with the Master.

Many residents do have part time jobs either voluntary or paid while most are retired.

Yes, they do and the site has recently been upgraded to fast broadband connectivity.

Yes, as long as the Master is informed and the method by which carers obtain entry to the flats is controlled.

There are regular social events organised, for example film afternoon, Harvest Lunch, Christmas Day, coffee mornings etc… but there is no pressure for residents to attend social events if they do not wish to do so’

Most residents have pot plants for which they care in the areas immediately outside their flats and by arrangement with Andrew Haddock, our Chief Gardener.

Many have a piece of garden, border or allotment to care for.