In response to soaring house prices that are placing homeownership beyond reach for many elderly residents, the historic St John’s Foundation is spearheading a significant effort to address the housing crisis by investing £5 million into affordable housing for older adults.
With over 850 years of community service, the foundation plans to use this funding over the next three years to construct up to 15 new almshouses and refurbish existing properties for individuals aged 65 and over facing financial difficulties.
Upon completion, St John’s Foundation will manage 109 almshouses, positioning it within the top two percent of almshouse providers nationwide.
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Chief Executive Catharine Brown emphasized the importance of this project: “This is one of the most pivotal and exciting moments in our history. Almshouses do more than provide affordable housing—they foster communities built on friendship and support, reducing loneliness and giving residents a profound sense of belonging and purpose.”
The decision to expand comes amid intense housing pressures in Bath and North East Somerset, where average house prices now exceed thirteen times the average salary. This region also has fewer social housing units than the national average, and temporary accommodation occupancy is at its highest in two decades.
Adding to the urgency, the population aged over 65 in this area is projected to grow by 15 percent by 2028, intensifying the need for affordable and supportive housing options.
Wera Hobhouse, MP for Bath, praised the foundation’s initiative: “St John’s Foundation has long been a cornerstone of our city. This new investment is a crucial step forward, offering more older people in Bath the security of affordable homes and the benefits of a supportive community. The positive effects will benefit generations.”
Beyond constructing new homes, St John’s plans significant upgrades to its Combe Park almshouses to improve warmth, energy efficiency, and future resilience for current residents. Additionally, the charity will relocate its headquarters to 1 Queen Square—a property it already owns—which will also serve as a co-working and events space for clients of the House of St John’s.
Pending planning approval, the new almshouses are expected to be completed by 2027, promising a safer and more supportive future for elderly residents in Bath.