Many older people prefer to stay in their own home for as long as possible, while others are lonely and would like company. Photo: Connect Housing
Housing for the elderly
Philip Barron reports on the Quaker contribution
Today there are over twenty active Quaker-run charities or Friendly Societies offering accommodation for elderly Friends (and others not in membership) with housing need in England. These schemes are entirely independent and autonomous, although a national body – the Quaker Housing Trust (QHT), offers access to a range of grants that allow providers to test the feasibility of plans and helps them to identify areas of growth. QHT also encourages providers to share good practice, and has a list of schemes for those seeking accommodation. At present, there appear to be no Quaker schemes in Scotland or Wales.
