Our Community
Alongside our primary aim to provide high quality accommodation for older people who are able to live independently, The Richmond Charities encourages a spirit of community by providing central activities, encouraging residents to set up and run their own groups and events and by supporting and encouraging the residents own club ‘Friends & Neighbours’.
Regular and one-off activities over the last year include:
- Film club
- Sketch club
- Nordic walking
- Bridge club
- Dance and movement
- Book club
- Coffee mornings
- Summer parties
- Christmas lunch at the Richmond Hill Hotel
- Yoga
- Meditation
- Autobiography group
- Stories for the Soul – a combination of storytelling
- Reflective discussion and creative activity
- A fortnightly group meeting with 5 and 6 year old from Marshgate School
- Seaside outing
- Bingo
- ‘Out and about' with your Freedom pass
- Gardening club
- Concerts
- Quiz nights
- Drama events
- Classes to help with mobility and prevent falls
Values & Ethos
The Richmond Charities values and ethos make it clear that the charity has a broader vision than simply the provision of housing. Trustees, staff and residents commit to demonstrating the following values in our working and living together:
- That we have a preference for those who might be disadvantaged or in housing need
- That we have respect for the whole person; their physical, emotional, social, mental and spiritual well-being
- That we have a commitment to living in communities.
Our Book:
Community Life in Richmond's Almshouses
During 2017 and 2018, The Richmond Charities collaborated with Chantal Richards, a local photographer who was undertaking an MA in Photojournalism and Documentary Photography. During the year, Chantal attended numerous events and activities within the charity’s community, as well as holding interviews with individual residents and hearing their stories. Through this book which resulted from all her photos and interviews, Chantal has provided us with a snapshot of what life is like living in the almshouses in the 21st century.
Chaplaincy
The Richmond Charities employs a Chaplain, Rev'd Derrick Thompson, who works alongside the Scheme Managers and other staff to support residents and build up the community. He is a Church of England priest and takes regular services in the Chapel of St Francis at Hickey’s Almshouses. Our Chaplain is available to all residents who might like some emotional support or an opportunity to build a little space for reflection into their lives. The Chaplain can offer a confidential listening ear when it is required.
Position: Chaplain