Almshouses > Introduction

Almshouses

The Bedford Charity has been involved in providing almshouses for over 200 years. The first in Dame Alice Street were completed in 1802.

Today’s almshouses include 24 one bedroom flats at Harpur House, 32 Cardington Road Bedford, and 14 bungalows and cottages in Randalls Close, Bromham.

Guests at the 2007 Summer Party enjoying a sing-a-long

All the properties offer a secure yet independent lifestyle for people in need of a more sheltered environment. Residents have private accommodation with their own front doors, in the knowledge that help is close to hand.

Both schemes are managed by a duty scheme manager, who is able to provide support to residents. Whilst staff are unable to provide personal care or help of an intimate nature, they will assist residents in seeking this care where appropriate. In addition, all properties are fitted with an emergency alarm system enabling residents to contact help 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.

We do not charge rent, but levy a weekly maintenance charge, which includes a charge for support services. Many residents receive assistance with this charge through Housing Benefit and the Supporting People Grant. In general, the weekly maintenance charge is below the rents charged by local housing associations.

In the event of an applicant or resident being in need of more care than can be provided within the almshouses, we have partnership arrangements with other housing providers able to offer extra care facilities.

Staff are on hand to help residents to arrange and enable scheme activities such as coffee mornings, parties, bingo and outings. As with most sheltered accommodation, the almshouses offer an excellent means of residents maintaining their independence, whilst ensuring peace of mind!

To be considered for almshouse accommodation, please complete the attached application form and return it to:

Scheme Warden
The Bedford Charity (The Harpur Trust)
Harpur House
32 Cardington Road
Bedford
MK40 0BS

Tel: 01234 344556

If you would like to have an informal chat about the accommodation we offer, or if you would like to arrange a visit please contact our Scheme Manager:

Sue Bays on 01234 344556