Clarifying the Trust’s Area of Eligibility for Future Residents

Newbury Almshouse Trust, and our consolidated charities, have always existed to support local people in need. This is a tradition that dates back over 800 years, to the founding of St Bartholomew’s Hospital in 1215.

Recently, we have reviewed and clarified the wording of our governing document regarding the geographical area from which applicants for almshouse accommodation may be drawn. The document states that beneficiaries are persons in need, hardship or distress in the area of the former Borough of Newbury or the Rural District of Newbury.

This clause was occasionally interpreted as applying only to the town of Newbury itself. However, following careful review, the Trust confirms that applicants who have lived for the last three years in any of the following places are eligible to apply for accommodation when a vacancy arises:

Boxford, Brimpton, Chieveley, Cold Ash, Enborne, Greenham, Hamstead, Hermitage, Leckhampstead, Midgham, Sandleford, Shaw/Donnington, Speen, Thatcham, Wasing, Welford, Winterbourne, and Woolhampton. 

Continuing Our Founders’ Intent

Newbury Almshouse Trust remains committed to supporting individuals who live locally and who find themselves in need of safe and warm accommodation in our historic properties. This clarification ensures that the spirit of our founders’ philanthropy continues faithfully today.