The Charity welcomes applications from those in need and of good character from within the parish of Lambourn and circumjacent parishes. Living in an almshouse community is peaceful and rewarding, but it may not suit everyone. Before applying we recommend that you get in contact or arrange to visit us for more information. Residents are not ‘tenants’, but are beneficiaries of the Charity and occupy an almshouse under license.
Who can apply?
The Almshouses of John Isbury and Jacob Hardrett provide affordable homes for people who are in need and have a strong connection to Lambourn or the surrounding parishes.
We welcome applications from individuals and couples, regardless of gender.
Applicants should be of good character and able to live independently.
How to apply
The application process is straightforward.
- Complete a Declaration of Interest form.
- Complete the full application form.
- Attend an interview with the Trustees if your application is taken forward.
Printed versions are available from the Clerk to the Trustees, The Lambourn Almshouses, Market Square, Lambourn, RG17 8XX. Please return completed Application Forms by post to the Clerk.
If there is no home available immediately, suitable applicants may be placed on a waiting list until a property becomes available.
About the Almshouses
The Almshouses have been serving the local community for more than 500 years. The John Isbury and Jacob Hardrett charities were brought together in 2019 and continue to provide high quality homes through this long established charity.
The Almshouses are owned and managed by the charity. They are not owned or funded by the local authority or a housing association.
Residents are appointed as beneficiaries of the charity rather than tenants.
Living in an Almshouse
Each almshouse is a self contained home. Some properties are suitable for up to two people sharing.
Residents make a weekly maintenance contribution towards the cost of running and maintaining the almshouses. Details of the current charges are available on request. We are also happy to provide information about benefits and financial support that may be available. Council Tax remains the responsibility of the resident.
The charity is responsible for maintaining the buildings, including repairs and internal and external decoration. Residents must obtain written permission from the Trustees before making any alterations to their home.
The charity is managed by ten Trustees and a Clerk. The Clerk deals with most day to day matters and is the first point of contact for any questions or concerns. If necessary, any issues will be referred to the Trustees.
Expectations of residents
To help create a pleasant and supportive community, we ask residents to:
- Be able to live independently.
- Keep their home and shared areas clean and tidy.
- Treat neighbours with kindness, respect and consideration.
- Take reasonable care of their own health and safety, and that of others.
- Help maintain a friendly and cooperative community.
Pets and motor vehicles may only be kept with the written permission of the Trustees.
Overnight visitors require the prior written permission of the charity.
How applications are assessed
When deciding who to appoint, the Trustees will consider:
- The applicant’s level of need, which may relate to housing, finances, age or personal circumstances.
- Evidence supporting their application.
- Their ability to live independently.
- Their ability to become part of a small and supportive community.
The Trustees also consider the wellbeing of existing residents when making appointments.
If you are offered an Almshouse
If you are selected, we will let you know as soon as possible after your interview.
Before your appointment, you will be asked to provide information about your financial circumstances so that we can confirm your eligibility.
Successful applicants will be appointed as beneficiaries of the charity. This means you will occupy the property under a Letter of Appointment rather than a tenancy agreement.
You will be asked to read and sign:
- A Letter of Appointment explaining your rights and responsibilities.
- A Next of Kin Form.
If your circumstances change
We understand that people’s circumstances can change over time. If this happens, the Trustees will meet with you to discuss your situation and consider the best way to support you.
In most cases, residents remain in their almshouse for life. However, there may be occasions when a resident can no longer remain, for example if they need residential or nursing care, or if they seriously breach the conditions of their appointment.
If you are not successful
If we are unable to offer you an almshouse at this time, we will explain the outcome and, where possible, discuss other housing options or future opportunities with the charity.
