Newbury Almshouse Trust Elects New Chairman

Newbury Almshouse Trust has elected a new chairman, Graham Vanbergen, at our October board meeting.

Graham has already begun work, assisting proctors with recent vacancies and working with contractors on existing and new maintenance projects. He has a wide background in property, working in the industry for over 25 years, which will be a great advantage to us as we navigate future developments.

Graham says “My focus is steering our historic organisation through modern-day challenges: preserving our Grade II listed properties, safeguarding our residents, and ensuring future financial sustainability. I’m committed to ensuring the Trust remains as relevant and resilient in the 2030s as it has been since 1215.”

Prior to Graham, John Craig had been chairman for five years, introducing a wide-ranging maintenance and refurbishment programme, including new heating systems and smoke alarms for the properties. He also recruited additional proctors and trustees to provide support to both residents and the Trust.

Graham says “John has set the direction for the future of the Trust, ensuring we have stable foundations for the changes that are on the horizon regarding the shortage of affordable housing in the Newbury area and upcoming legislation. He has done a huge amount of work in securing our future.”