A long tradition of care
The Charities have supported local people in need since the 14th century; a tradition that continues today.
A foundation dating back to 1370
Salisbury City Almshouse and Welfare Charities have their roots in deeds of benefaction reaching back as far as 1370, when the Hospital of the Holy Trinity was founded as an act of penance by Agnes Bottenham who, according to local legend, had been a local inn and brothel keeper. The hospital housed on a permanent basis 12 needy persons and provided accommodation for 18 temporary residents who could stay for three days.
A legacy of local generosity
Other legacies from local landowners, Aldermen of the City and Members of Parliament over the centuries established local charities which have all now been amalgamated under the umbrella of Salisbury City Almshouse and Welfare Charities. Each almshouse site continues to bear the name of its historical benefactor, the stories of whom are often fascinating and are intrinsically woven into the history of the city of Salisbury.
A lasting commitment to the city
Back in the Middle Ages, Trinity Hospital was often the only refuge for the sick in the city, and this commitment to caring for the needy has continued through the centuries to the present day. Many of our almshouses are well-known sights on the city’s tourist trail, including Hussey’s Almshouses in Castle Street and Trinity Hospital which was rebuilt in 1702.
Recent milestones in our journey
In 1997, Steve Biddle House in Hudson Road (named after William Stephen Biddle, Mayor of Salisbury 1966–67) was opened by Sir Harry Secombe as Salisbury’s first Very Sheltered Almshouse, followed by Robert Stokes Almshouse in Carmelite Way in 2005.
In 2000 the Charities rebuilt Sarah Hayter’s Almshouses on Fisherton Street (established in 1797) which won the Prince of Wales’ Patron’s Award for its design and build quality. Most recently, the Charities rebuilt St Mary Magdalen Hospital in Wilton and constructed five new bungalows on the same site (Lady Benson Almshouses). These 11 almshouses are not Warden assisted, do not have call alarms and priority is given to residents of the Wilton area who are in financial need.
Our history in greater detail
Caring – a History of Salisbury City Almshouses is available to buy from the Charities’ offices.
Enquire now