The Elizabeth Twining Almshouses welcome new residents this winter

Richmond Charities are pleased to announce that The Elizabeth Twining Almshouses are now allocated to elderly residents in housing and financial need in the borough.

The process of allocating new residents for the five new dwellings at The Elizabeth Twining Almshouses has been completed, and new appointees have been confirmed. The development features four high quality one-bed wheelchair user dwellings and one high quality one-bed accessible and adaptable dwelling.

Juliet Ames-Lewis, Chief Executive of The Richmond Charities, said: “We are delighted with our new wheelchair accessible almshouses which have been built to PassivHaus standards, the highest level of energy efficiency accreditation. There are many people over the age of 65 in the borough wishing to join our community and we have prioritised those in the highest mobility need for these new almshouses. We are looking forward to welcoming them.”

Two of the new residents are moving from other existing almshouses due to their mobility needs and the requirement for level access. One of the new residents was previously homeless. In addition, two new residents are moving from social housing, both having lived in PA Housing properties on secure tenancies. Their previous homes were unsuitable for their increasing mobility needs and all were deemed to be in high priority.

As a result, three PA Housing properties will be available for re-letting from the Council Register.

We collaborated closely with Richmond Charities. Our specialist Occupational Therapist from the Housing Enablement team supported the Charities to ensure the new homes were fit for purpose and built out as fully accessible, from pre-planning stages all the way to completion of the new homes. This included advising on the design and layout of the bungalows and on inclusive contemporary products. This dedicated role helps to keep inclusive, adaptable and accessible homes high on the borough’s housing agenda and ensure new builds meet the diverse needs of residents.

Councillor Jim Millard, Deputy Leader of Richmond Council and Lead Member for Housing said: “Ensuring our elderly residents have access to suitable and high-quality housing is a priority for us. By collaborating with Richmond Charities to ensure that these homes are accessible and meet the diverse needs of our residents, we can ensure the borough provides not only homes, but a community where older people can thrive with the necessary support and security.”

Additionally, Richmond Charities’ second new development on Queen’s Road is opening this spring. These affordable homes will be suitable for the over 65s in the borough who are in housing and financial need. To apply or for more details, contact The Richmond Charities at info@richmondcharities.org.uk. 

The Richmond Charities provide a vibrant, friendly and caring community where older people are encouraged to live full and active lives within the setting of high quality housing, support, comfort and security.